About Careers Internship MedBlog Contact us
Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Advertisement

Dominant Coral Population More Likely to be Affected by Global Climate Change

by Dr. Enozia Vakil on November 17, 2013 at 11:17 PM
 Dominant Coral Population More Likely to be Affected by Global Climate Change

Dominant, abundant corals that have wide distributions are more likely to be affected by global climate change, researchers claim.

The team of scientists from the University of Hawaii - Manoa (UHM), Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research (JIMAR) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) evaluated both the geologic record of past extinctions and recent major events to assess the characteristics of dominant corals under various conditions.

Advertisement

They determined that during periods advantageous to coral growth, natural selection favors corals with traits that make them more vulnerable to climate change.

The last 10 thousand years have been especially beneficial for corals. Acropora species, like table coral, elkhorn coral and staghorn coral, were favored in competition due to their rapid growth.
Advertisement

This advantageous rapid growth may have been attained in part by neglecting investment in few defenses against predation, hurricanes, or warm seawater.

Acropora species have porous skeletons, extra thin tissue, and low concentrations of carbon and nitrogen in their tissues.

The abundant corals have taken an easy road to living a rich and dominating life during the present interglacial period, but the payback comes when the climate becomes less hospitable.

Researchers from the UHM School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST); the National Marine Fisheries Service (Southeast Fisheries Science Center, Northwest Fisheries Science Center, and Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center); NOAA National Ocean Service; and NOAA Coral Reef Watch propose that the conditions driven by excess carbon dioxide in the ocean cause mortality at rates that are independent of coral abundance.

This density-independent mortality and physiological stress affects reproductive success and leads to the decline of corals.

Source: ANI
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Lifestyle and Wellness News

What Really Happens to Your Skin After Cleansing?
The 'tight' sensation on your face after washing is explained by skin contraction in the outer layer.
Skin Hotspots in Ears & Toes - Safe Haven for Harmful Germs
The skin between the toes and behind the ears can harbor many harmful germs that can cause a variety of skin illnesses.
Work Breaks - Need of the Hour to Counteract Prolonged Sitting
Prolonged sitting among office goers, pose risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypertension, and certain types of cancers.
Fear of Garlic Bad Breath? Try Deodorizing Effect of Yogurt
Yogurt's protein and fat content demonstrated its unidentified deodorizing properties against garlic's pungent odor.
Smoking Tobacco and Cannabis Tied to Depression Risk
People who smoke tobacco and cannabis have an increased risk of depression and anxiety than those who use either substance alone or not at all.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
MediBotMediBot
Greetings! How can I assist you?MediBot
×

Dominant Coral Population More Likely to be Affected by Global Climate Change Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests