Hawaiian Black Corals and Their Symbiodinium
Author Information
Author(s): Wagner Daniel, Pochon Xavier, Irwin Leslie, Toonen Robert J., Gates Ruth D.
Primary Institution: Department of Oceanography, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa
Hypothesis
Do Hawaiian black corals contain Symbiodinium despite being traditionally considered azooxanthellate?
Conclusion
The study confirms that some Hawaiian black corals host Symbiodinium, extending the known habitat range for these dinoflagellates to depths of up to 396 meters.
Supporting Evidence
- Symbiodinium were identified in 43% of the antipatharian samples examined.
- 71% of the species surveyed contained Symbiodinium.
- The study represents the deepest record for Symbiodinium to date.
Takeaway
Some black corals in Hawaii, which were thought to not have any symbiotic algae, actually do have them, even at very deep depths where there's little light.
Methodology
The study used molecular typing and histological analyses to examine 53 antipatharian samples from various depths.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on a limited number of antipatharian species and may not represent all black corals.
Participant Demographics
Samples were collected from 14 antipatharian species across various depths in Hawaiian waters.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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