Step 1: Understanding phase shift.
A phase shift in ecology refers to a significant change in the structure of an ecosystem. In this case, the coral ecosystem transforms into an algal-dominated one due to repeated bleaching events, resulting in a change from coral dominance to algae dominance.
Step 2: Explanation of the other options.
Adaptive radiation refers to the rapid evolution of new species from a common ancestor.
Coral transplantation is a conservation method used to move coral from one area to another.
Coral recruitment refers to the process by which new corals settle and grow on reefs.