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This is how a coral produces the pulsating movements of its tentacles – without a brain and in perfect synchronization

A joint study by Tel Aviv University and the University of Haifa discovered that a soft coral's tentacles drive rhythmic movements through a decentralized neural pacemaker system. The system enables each tentacle to perform independent movement while achieving precise collective synchronization.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 13, 2026

Nutritional supplements boost baby coral survival

Researchers at the University of Technology Sydney discovered that tailored lipid supplements can significantly increase coral larvae's strength, speed, and survival rate. This innovation has major implications for reef restoration projects, which aim to improve larval supply but often face low post-settlement survival rates.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2025

Algae research provides insight on immune health

A new study by University of Texas at Arlington researchers found that living with symbiotic algae weakens the immune system of jellyfish, making them more vulnerable to infections. This finding has important implications for coral reef conservation and human disease prevention.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024