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National Ocean Service National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Home Education Corals Zooxanthellae... What's That?

Zooxanthellae Purpose

Microscopic view of zooxanthellae

Tiny cells called zooxanthellae live within most types of coral polyps. They help the coral survive by providing it with food resulting from photosynthesis. In turn, the coral polyps provide the zooxanthellae with a protected environment and the nutrients they need to carry out photosynthesis.

Corals Lessons

The National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) includes this resource in its database. NSTA provides educators and students access to Web-based, educationally appropriate science content that has been formally evaluated by master teachers.
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