Work

Different algal symbionts explain the vertical distribution of dominant reef corals in the eastern Pacific

Year: 2004

Type: article

Abstract: Symbiotic reef corals occupy the entire photic zone; however, most species have distinct zonation patterns within the light intensity gradient. It is hypothesized that the presence of specific symbionts adapted to different light regimes may determine the vertical distribution of particular hosts. We have tested this hypothesis by genetic and in situ physiological analyses of the algal populations occupying two dominant eastern Pacific corals, over their vertical distribution in the Gulf of California. Our findings indicate that each coral species hosts a distinct algal taxon adapted to a particular light regime. The differential use of light by specific symbiotic dinoflagellates constitutes an important axis for niche diversification and is sufficient to explain the vertical distribution patterns of these two coral species.

Source: Proceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences

DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2004.2757

Authors: R. Iglesias-Prieto, V. H. Beltrán, T. C. LaJeunesse, H. Reyes-Bonilla, P. E. Thomé

Institutions: Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, University of Georgia, University of Miami

Language: English

Topic: Coral and Marine Ecosystems Studies

Subfield: Ecology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life below water

Open Access status: green

Funders: Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología, Dirección General de Asuntos del Personal Académico, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México