Explain how the ratings for chlorophyll a might influence the overall ratings of coastal habitats. A) The algae that contains chlorophyll a can be detrimental to other life forms. As algae increase the total organic carbon increases. B) The more chlorophyll a present, the more algae present. This can be a result of higher nitrogen and phosphorus and may result in lowered dissolved oxygen if algal blooms develop, C) Chlorophyll, a plant pigment, is measured to indicate the amount of algae in the water. The more chlorophyll a present, the more plant growth and the healthier the aquatic environment. D) There is a direct correlation between algae present and benthic organisms. The more algae, the more benthic invertebrates. That means more abundant food for other animals in the coastal habitats.