Change in Coral Algal Communities After Bleaching
Author Information
Author(s): Jones A.M, Berkelmans R, van Oppen M.J.H, Mieog J.C, Sinclair W
Primary Institution: Central Queensland University
Hypothesis
Does the symbiont community of Acropora millepora change following a natural bleaching event?
Conclusion
The study found that the symbiont community of Acropora millepora shifted dramatically after a bleaching event, likely increasing the thermal tolerance of the coral population.
Supporting Evidence
- Before bleaching, 93.5% of coral colonies harbored the sensitive Symbiodinium type C2.
- After bleaching, 71% of surviving colonies changed to more tolerant symbiont types D or C1.
- Mortality rates were significantly higher in C2-predominant colonies compared to D-predominant colonies.
Takeaway
When corals get stressed and bleach, they can change the types of tiny algae they live with, which helps them survive better in hot water.
Methodology
The study involved tagging and monitoring coral colonies before and after a bleaching event, analyzing changes in symbiont types using DNA sequencing and statistical methods.
Limitations
The study is specific to one coral species and location, and results may not be generalizable to all coral species or environments.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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