IELTS Matching information Coral Reefs – Rainforests of the Sea

 Passage: Coral Reefs – Rainforests of the Sea

Paragraph A

Coral reefs are diverse underwater ecosystems held together by calcium carbonate structures secreted by corals. They are often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea” due to their extraordinary biodiversity. Coral reefs are mainly found in shallow, warm waters of tropical oceans.

Paragraph B

There are three main types of coral reefs: fringing reefs, barrier reefs, and atolls. Fringing reefs grow close to the shore, barrier reefs are separated from the land by a lagoon, and atolls are circular reefs surrounding a central lagoon. Each type supports a unique set of marine species.

Paragraph C

Coral polyps are small, soft-bodied organisms that build reefs by extracting calcium from seawater. They have a symbiotic relationship with algae called zooxanthellae, which provide nutrients through photosynthesis and give corals their vibrant colors.

Paragraph D

Coral reefs provide habitats for thousands of marine species, including fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and sea turtles. They offer food, shelter, and breeding grounds, making them crucial for maintaining marine biodiversity.

Paragraph E

Despite their importance, coral reefs are under threat from human activities and environmental changes. Climate change causes coral bleaching, overfishing reduces reef species, and pollution damages delicate coral structures. Conservation efforts include marine protected areas and sustainable fishing practices.

Paragraph F

Research indicates that healthy coral reefs contribute to coastal protection by reducing wave energy and preventing shoreline erosion. Additionally, they have significant economic value through tourism, fisheries, and even potential medical discoveries.

Questions: Matching Information

Match each statement (1–8) with the paragraph (A–F) in which the information is found.

1. Coral reefs are built by calcium-secreting organisms.
2. Coral reefs help prevent coastal erosion.
3. There are three main types of coral reefs.
4. Coral polyps live in symbiosis with algae.
5. Coral reefs provide habitats for many marine species.
6. Coral reefs are often found in shallow tropical waters.
7. Human activities such as pollution and overfishing threaten reefs.
8. Coral reefs are called “rainforests of the sea” due to their biodiversity.

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Answers:

1. C – Coral polyps build reefs using calcium.
2. F – Coastal protection is described in Paragraph F.
3. B – Three types of reefs are explained in Paragraph B.
4. C – Symbiosis with algae is mentioned in Paragraph C.
5. D – Habitat for marine species is in Paragraph D.
6. A – Distribution in shallow tropical waters is in Paragraph A.
7. E – Threats from human activity and environmental change are in Paragraph E.
8. A – Biodiversity and nickname “rainforests of the sea” are in Paragraph A.

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Tips for Matching Information Practice:

• Focus on specific factual details like numbers, relationships, and effects.
• Statements may be reworded—look for synonyms and related phrases.
• Each paragraph typically contains one or two key pieces of information.
• Skim the passage first, then locate keywords from the statements.