Drivers of Coral Disease Outbreaks
Author Information
Author(s): Bruno John F, Selig Elizabeth R, Casey Kenneth S, Page Cathie A, Willis Bette L, Harvell C. Drew, Sweatman Hugh, Melendy Amy M
Primary Institution: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Hypothesis
Is the frequency of warm temperature anomalies positively related to the frequency of coral disease across 1,500 km of Australia's Great Barrier Reef?
Conclusion
The frequency of temperature anomalies can increase the susceptibility of corals to disease, leading to outbreaks where corals are abundant.
Supporting Evidence
- Coral disease outbreaks were linked to high coral cover and warm temperature anomalies.
- The study found a 20-fold increase in white syndrome frequency after a warm summer.
- Disease frequency was significantly higher on reefs with more than 50% coral cover.
Takeaway
When the ocean gets too warm, corals can get sick, especially if there are a lot of them in one place.
Methodology
The study analyzed coral disease frequency and warm temperature anomalies across 48 reefs over 6 years using satellite data and annual surveys.
Potential Biases
Potential sampling bias due to varying coral cover across reefs.
Limitations
The study may not account for all biotic and abiotic factors influencing coral disease dynamics.
Participant Demographics
Coral reefs across 1,500 km of Australia's Great Barrier Reef.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.000
Statistical Significance
p<0.000
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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