Invasive macroalgae shape chemical and microbial waterscapes on coral reefs
A field study demonstrates that macroalgae generate complex chemical and microbial waterscapes, which could play essential roles in the function and resilience of coral reefs
Nanoparticle gel could help save degraded coral reefs
The algae also thrive in areas that tend to be favorable coral microhabitats. However, other kinds of algae release compounds that dissuade coral larvae, and as reefs degrade, their mix of algae species changes, too, changing the overall mix of chemical signals that coral larvae receive.
Scientists have found macroalgae (seaweed) can help protect some corals from bleaching, and the removal of the canopy-forming seaweed should be carefully timed to help coral reefs thrive.
As we can see from the illustration, Algae Preventatives For Coral Reefs has many fascinating aspects to explore.
How Coral
Deep within coral reef ecosystems, a remarkable partnership unfolds between corals and microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, representing one of nature's most vital symbiotic relationships. These single-celled dynamos, living within coral tissues by the millions, transform sunlight into sustenance through photosynthesis, providing up to 90% of their coral hosts' energy needs. In return ...
What is coral bleaching? Coral bleaching happens when corals lose their vibrant colors and turn white. But there's a lot more to it than that. Coral are bright and colorful because of microscopic algae called zooxanthellae. The zooxanthellae live within the coral in a mutually beneficial relationship, each helping the other survive. But when the ocean environment changes—if it gets too hot ...
