Role of Symbiotic Algae (zooxanthellae) in Coral Calcification
Year: 1971
Type: article
Abstract: 1. In branches of the coral Acropora cervicornis, the abundance of symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) increases from tip to base, while active calcification decreases. Light enhancement of calcification rates is, paradoxically, greatest in the algae-poor tips of branches. 2. Calcium-45 experiments on intact and isolated tips of the coral branches suggest that light enhancement of calcification in the algae-poor tip results from photosynthesis by zooxanthellae farther down in the branch. 3. Carbon-14 experiments indicate that organic products of algal photosynthesis are translocated to the coral tip. The main carbon-14 labeled products in the tip are lipids, glycerol and glucose. 4. Our data are consistent with the hypothesis that translocated algal products enhance coral calcification rates.
Source: Biological Bulletin
DOI: 10.2307/1540123
Authors: VICKI BUCHSBAUM PEARSE, LEONARD MUSCATINE
Institution: University of California, Los Angeles
Language: English
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Life below water
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2339084534