The cement for coral reefs
Coralline red algae have formed a calcareous skeleton to support coral reefs for at least 150 million years. However, their role was only proven through the analysis of over 700 fossilised reefs from the Earth's history.
Coral Reefs
Articles tagged with Coral Reefs
Crown-of-thorns eat themselves out of house and home
A recent study on the Great Barrier Reef reveals that crown-of-thorns starfish can navigate back to their shelters at dawn after feeding on corals at night. The research found that only starfish with a well-stocked larder, meaning they have an ample supply of coral prey, were able to find their way home.
Genomic data 'catches corals in the act' of speciation and adaptation
A new study finds that Hawaiian corals' diversity is driven by co-evolution between the coral host, algal symbiont, and microbial community. The team analyzed metagenomic sequencing data to understand adaptation and variation in corals.
Location and extent of coral reefs mapped worldwide using advanced AI
Researchers at Arizona State University have generated a global coral reef extent map using advanced AI, predicting the location of shallow reefs with nearly 90% accuracy. The map was created by analyzing thousands of satellite images and is now available through the Allen Coral Atlas.
Triggerfish learns to catch more diverse food
A titan triggerfish was observed catching a Red Sea ghost crab in shallow water without beaching itself. This unique behavior highlights the fish's ability to learn and adapt its feeding strategy.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of Fish Biology·DateOct 19, 2020
Palau's coral reefs: a jewel of the ocean
Scientists from the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation found Palau's coral reefs to have exceptionally high live coral cover, exceeding 45%, and species diversity. However, reef fish communities were found to be lacking, with many big fish missing and signs of overfishing observed on nearshore reefs.
FSU researchers find diverse communities comprise bacterial mats threatening coral reefs
A study published by FSU researchers found that coral reef mats are composed of diverse microbial communities, including cyanobacteria, algae, fungi, and viruses. The discovery opens up new avenues for understanding the ecological role of these mats and how to protect reef ecosystems.
The Great Barrier Reef has lost half its corals
The Great Barrier Reef has lost half its corals in the past three decades, with small, medium, and large coral populations declining by more than 50 percent. This decline is driven by climate change, which is causing record-breaking temperatures to trigger mass bleaching events.
People can do more than use less plastic to help save the GBR: QUT research
A survey of 4,285 Australians found that only a few percent mentioned climate-related actions to help protect the reef. Instead, respondents emphasized the importance of reducing plastic consumption and suggested public-sphere actions such as banning sunscreens or stopping commercial fishing.
Extinctions linked to new assemblages of species
Scientists have developed a world-first method to detect 'novel' communities of species, which are associated with increased extinction rates. Novel ecological communities are characterized by unique combinations of species that differ from past observations at the same site.
Stabilizing marine reserves in Great Barrier Reef
Researchers found that a network of marine reserves replenishes exploited fish stocks while minimizing risk to ocean ecosystems. This approach stabilizes reserve performance, providing a reliable source of larval offspring.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2020
'Portfolio' of marine reserves enhances fish populations
A study by Dr. Hugo Harrison found that connecting marine reserves through a 'portfolio' approach can provide reliable quantities of fish across an ecosystem. This approach supports more fish, which then produce even greater numbers of baby fish, ultimately stabilizing fish populations.
SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2020
The pace of environmental change can doom or save coral reefs
Research reveals coral reef ecosystems collapse under rapid fishing pressures due to positive feedback between fish behavior and ecosystem sensitivity. The study highlights the importance of understanding the social component of individual fish in managing coral reefs for sustainable harvest levels.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2020
Ocean acidification puts deep-sea coral reefs at risk of collapse
A study suggests that deep-sea coral reefs are at risk of collapse due to increasing ocean acidity caused by rising levels of carbon dioxide. The underlying structures of the reefs become brittle and fragile, leading to early breakage and crumbling, ultimately shrinking the ecosystems.
Project Phoenix: DNA unlocks a new understanding of coral
Researchers have developed a new genetic tool to classify corals, challenging over 200 years of traditional classification. The study reveals new insights into coral evolution and identification, providing crucial knowledge for conservation efforts and proposal assessment.
SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateSep 14, 2020
Shedding light on coral reefs
A study published in Coral Reefs finds that materials in seawater affect light availability and wavelength on coral reefs, impacting photosynthesis and ecological zonation. Researchers used an instrument called a profiling reflectance radiometer to collect data profiles across Hawaiian and Bermudian reefs.
Environment: Removing marine plastic litter is costly for small island states
Removing marine plastic litter from Aldabra Atoll could cost US $4.68 million and require 18,000 hours of labour. The study highlights the economic burden on small island states to protect their marine ecosystems.
Australian scientists discover new corals on most comprehensive deep-sea study of GBR
Researchers from Australia and international partners discovered five undescribed coral species, including black corals and sponges, and recorded a rare fish in the Coral Sea. They also collected critical habitat samples to improve understanding of seabed features and marine ecosystems.
New test can detect crown-of-thorns starfish as quickly as a home pregnancy kit
Researchers developed a dipstick test that detects crown-of-thorns starfish by measuring specific DNA in seawater, allowing for early detection of coral-eating pests. The test can detect very low numbers of the pest, supporting an early warning and intervention system.
Great Barrier Reef 'glue' at risk from ocean acidification
A study by the University of Sydney found that the calcified scaffolds in the Great Barrier Reef become thinner and weaker as pH levels drop, indicating a risk to reef stability. This 'glue' can now be used as an accurate measure for historic ocean acidification.
Uncovering the hidden life of 'dead' coral reefs
Researchers from the University of Queensland have found that 'dead' coral rubble supports more animals than live coral, revealing a new understanding of these often-overlooked habitats. The discovery highlights the importance of biodiversity in these areas, which are dominated by tiny invertebrates and microorganisms.
Ocean acidification causing coral 'osteoporosis' on iconic reefs
Researchers find significant decline in coral skeleton density due to ocean acidification on the Great Barrier Reef and South China Sea. This effect will likely accelerate as ocean acidity increases over the next several decades.
Difficult, complex decisions underpin the future of the world's coral reefs
Effective solutions to climate change threaten coral reefs require prioritization challenges, weighing quality versus quantity, and species selection. Coordinated interventions combined with best-practice management are necessary to sustain the reef's resilience.
UBCO researcher uses computer modelling to predict reef health
A UBC Okanagan researcher has developed an agent-based model to simulate the behavior of coral reefs and identify traits that contribute to their resilience. This will help design reef management and restoration strategies to stem losses and ensure the long-term health of coral ecosystems.
Video is not always effective in science communication
Researchers found that a video about coral reefs had less willingness to pay among audience members compared to those shown a slideshow with text and photographs. The study highlights the importance of information type and amount in science communication.
Nooks, crannies and critters
Researchers developed a new way to measure habitat complexity, which is crucial for understanding biodiversity and conservation status. The method uses three metrics: rugosity, fractal dimension, and height range, and can accurately predict the distribution of biodiversity in complex ecosystems.
Nutrients make coral bleaching worse
Researchers have discovered that nutrients exacerbate the negative impacts of climate change on corals, increasing the risk of mass coral bleaching. High levels of nutrients stress corals, making them more susceptible to heat-induced bleaching.
Pumice arrives delivering "vitamin boost" to the reef
Researchers have discovered that pumice rafts are delivering a surge of new coral and reef-building organisms to the Great Barrier Reef, boosting its health. The rafts, formed when frothy magma cools rapidly, carry a diverse array of marine life across thousands of kilometers.
How people and ecosystems fit together on the Great Barrier Reef
A world-first study examining the Great Barrier Reef's management found that people are managed at broader scales than ecological variation, suggesting a general principle for permitting and management. This approach may be more effective in sustainably managing ecosystems, especially small protected areas.
Collaboration is key to rebuilding coral reefs
A global research study has identified successful coral reef restoration projects that combined local community engagement, tourism support, and trained local fishermen or divers. These collaborative efforts resulted in high coral survival rates, increased coral cover, and socioeconomic benefits for surrounding communities.
Angels in disguise: Angelfishes hybridize more than any other coral reef species
A new study reveals that marine angelfish exhibit the highest incidence of hybridization among coral reef fish, with nearly half of all known species creating hybrids. The research found that angelfish can hybridize even between distantly related species and across vast genetic distances.
The behavior of coral reefs is simulated in order to optimize space in industrial plants
A team of researchers from the University of Córdoba has developed an algorithm that simulates the behavior of coral reefs to optimize space in industrial plants. The algorithm takes into account various factors such as distribution, material movement, noise reduction, and proximity, resulting in improved efficiency and cost savings.
SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalEngineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence·DateJul 31, 2020
Reduced coral reef fish biodiversity under temperatures that mirror climate predictions
Researchers found that small fish on hot Arabian Gulf reefs are less diverse and abundant than those on cooler reefs, despite similar coral cover. The thermal extremes may be an energetically challenging environment for these smallest marine vertebrates.
Coral reefs show resilience to rising temperatures
Researchers found that coral reefs in the ETP region have adapted to heat stress, with some recovering within 10-15 years after El Niño events. The study suggests that ETP corals' high reproductive rates, tolerant symbiotic algae, and geographical patterns may contribute to their resilience.
Boats and ships leave baby reef fish vulnerable to predators
A recent study found that noisy boats and ships can affect the prey response of young fishes, leading to decreased activity and reduced swimming distance. This can result in slower escape responses and increased mortality rates among juvenile reef fish.
How governments resist World Heritage 'in Danger' listings
A study found that national governments resist World Heritage 'in Danger' listings despite the sites being equally or more threatened than those already on the list. Low visibility strategies and industrial lobbying are prevalent in blocking environmental governance.
Genetics could help protect coral reefs from global warming
A new study from Columbia University provides a blueprint for using genomics to help combat climate change by identifying corals that can adapt to warmer seas. Researchers analyzed genetic data from 237 samples collected at 12 locations along the Great Barrier Reef, finding multiple genetic variants associated with bleaching tolerance.
Pesticide mixtures a bigger problem than previously thought
Research has found that nearly all water samples from 15 waterways discharging into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon contained pesticide mixtures, with up to 20 pesticides present in some samples. The study emphasizes the need for improved pesticide management practices among land managers and farmers to reduce losses to waterways.
Sea surface temperature has a big impact on coral outplant survival
Researchers from Arizona State University found that coral outplant survival drops below 50% if sea surface temperatures exceed 30.5 degrees Celsius, highlighting the importance of considering temperature conditions in reef restoration efforts.
Tackling coral reefs' thorny problem
Researchers from OIST Graduate University discovered the crown-of-thorns starfish's evolution, shedding light on its population changes and potential threats to coral reefs. The findings suggest complex ocean currents in the Ryukyu Archipelago may aid the survival of the larvae.
University of Guam: Two climate patterns predict coral bleaching months earlier
Researchers used El Niño and Pacific Decadal Oscillation to predict coral bleaching and crown-of-thorns starfish events up to 5 months in advance, providing more time for proactive reef management. This tool may help islands become better equipped to handle these forces.
Research reveals fishing pressures affect tropical and temperate reefs differently
A recent study found that tropical reefs are driven by bottom-up forcing, while temperate reefs are more influenced by top-down forcing. Marine reserves increased predator populations in both tropical and temperate regions.
Bleaching affects aquarium corals, too
A new study reveals that two key species of Australian aquarium corals are particularly susceptible to bleaching due to recurrent heatwaves. The study's findings emphasize the need for targeted in-situ monitoring to ensure the long-term sustainability of the coral industry.
The state of coral reefs in the Solomon Islands
Scientists found impressive reefs with diverse coral communities but few fish, particularly near coastal communities. The research provides critical baseline data to monitor changes and inform management plans for conservation.
Red Sea's coral reefs help protect the KSA coast
Researchers at KAUST used high-resolution modeling to show coral reefs play a crucial role in reducing wave heights by half along the Red Sea coastline, enabling safer coastal construction and reduced fill material costs.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalOcean Engineering·DateJun 28, 2020
Island 'drowning' is not inevitable as sea levels rise
New research suggests coral reef islands can respond to sea level rise by evolving through natural processes, potentially supporting near-term habitability. Islands composed of gravel material can raise their crest as sea level rises, with additional management challenges involved.
Two vital buffers against climate change are just offshore
A new study highlights the critical role of mangroves and coral reefs in protecting coastal communities from climate-related disasters. With over 8.5 million people benefiting directly from these natural defenses, conservation and restoration efforts are essential to address growing vulnerability across highly exposed regions.
Big vegetarians of the reef drive fish evolution
A new study found that the diets of reef fish dictate how fast different species evolve, with big vegetarian fish driving biodiversity. The study's authors built an evolutionary tree of life for nearly all fishes associated with reefs, examining variation in rates of species formation and asking what drives it.
Report on New Caledonia's coral reefs offers a glimmer of hope for the future
The report found many coral reefs to be in surprisingly good health, with abundant and diverse coral and fish communities. Reefs far from shore or protected in Marine Protected Areas were in particularly good condition, but nearshore reefs showed signs of fishing pressure.
Cyclones can damage even distant reefs
Research reveals that cyclones can cause significant damage to coral reefs as far as 1000 kilometres away from their paths. The study found that Scott Reef lost 50% of its Porites corals and virtually all its Acropora coral species due to Cyclone Lua's high seas.
Mysterious glowing coral reefs are fighting to recover
Researchers found that corals producing a 'sunscreen layer' can encourage symbionts to return, boosting recovery prospects. Colourful bleaching events occur in association with brief or mild heat stress episodes.
Even biodiverse coral reefs still vulnerable to climate change and invasive species
A new study reveals that strong relationships between diversity and a healthy ecosystem persist, even in stressed reefs. However, human-driven pressures from warming oceans and invasive species continue to diminish ecosystems.
Fish feces reveals which species eat crown-of-thorns
A study using fish poo and gut contents found that 18 coral reef fish species consume young or adult crown-of-thorns starfish on the reef. This discovery could help control destructive pest populations and shed light on why some reef areas have fewer starfish than others.
How climate killed corals
A study by Kris Karnauskas found that a marine heatwave followed by a terrestrial one, exacerbated by global warming, led to the massive coral bleaching event. The warm water persisted for months, causing extensive damage to the ecosystem and drastically changing species composition.
University of Guam secures $20 million to expand coral research
The University of Guam has secured a five-year, $20 million grant from the National Science Foundation's EPSCoR program to enhance its research capabilities on coral reef survival. The project aims to understand the evolutionary and ecological processes that drive resilience in coral reefs under climate change stress.
Severe coral loss leaves reefs with larger fish but low energy turnover
Research on the Great Barrier Reef found severe coral loss is associated with increased biomass and productivity of large, long-living herbivorous fish. However, decreased recycling of this biomass could leave the ecosystem vulnerable to crashing.
Long-term consequences of coastal development as bad as an oil spill on coral reefs
Researchers found that coral reefs in Panama's Caribbean coast suffered significant declines in species diversity and abundance after a 1986 refinery accident. Thirty years later, the impacts of coastal development and human-related stressors on reefs were comparable to those of oil spills.
Warming climate undoes decades of knowledge of marine protected areas
A new study finds that climate-driven transformations render marine reserves ineffective in protecting biodiversity and fish biomass. Marine reserves still protect some species, but conservation efforts require re-evaluation. Urgent action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate other pressures.
Caribbean coral reef decline began in 1950s and 1960s from local human activities
The Caribbean coral reef decline began in the 1950s and 1960s due to local human activities such as fishing and land-clearing. Researchers used fossil data, historical records, and underwater survey data to reconstruct the abundance of staghorn and elkhorn corals over the past 125,000 years.
Can coral reefs 'have it all'?
A recent study found that only five percent of tropical reefs globally can meet multiple goals, including providing enough fishing stocks and maintaining biodiversity. Marine reserves placed in areas with low human pressures had the best results for helping reefs get on the 'A-list', meeting all goals simultaneously.