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Exploring the life cycle of coral larvae, this overview delves into their settlement and survival strategies. It also examines the contributions of various organisms to reef building, including corals, algae, and bivalves. The text addresses Darwin's paradox, highlighting the nutrient cycling and acquisition that allow coral reefs to thrive in nutrient-poor waters, and the oceanographic influences that support their biodiversity.
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Coral larvae use reef-generated sounds and chemical signals to navigate towards suitable settlement sites
Predation
Coral larvae face low survival rates due to predation by other marine organisms
Harsh Environmental Conditions
Coral larvae must also contend with harsh environmental conditions in order to successfully settle and grow
Once settled, coral larvae must compete for resources in order to contribute to the reef's structure and biodiversity
Corals, coralline algae, sponges, and bivalves all contribute to the structure of coral reefs by depositing calcium carbonate
Coralline algae solidify the reef by creating a calcareous crust that protects against wave action, despite their slower growth rate compared to corals
Sponges
Sponges, including sclerosponges, have been part of reef ecosystems since the Cambrian era and contribute to reef building through their calcifying abilities
Bivalves
Bivalves, such as oysters, form extensive colonies that are vital for the survival of many marine species
Coral reefs are located in nutrient-poor tropical waters, a situation known as "Darwin's paradox."
Despite the lack of nutrients, coral reefs support diverse marine life and achieve remarkable levels of biomass production
Coral reefs support complex food webs, with primary producers such as phytoplankton, seaweed, and turf algae forming the base
Coral reefs minimize the need for external nutrient sources by recycling nutrients internally
Inorganic Nutrients
Corals absorb inorganic nutrients directly from the water, supplementing their diet by capturing zooplankton at night
Sponges
Sponges filter out phytoplankton and release nutrients in forms that corals can utilize
The intricate surfaces of coral reefs enhance nutrient exchange with the surrounding water, promoting the health of the reef
00
Coral offspring, known as ______, must find the right base to attach to after entering the sea, a crucial step for the continuation of their species.
planulae
01
During their search for a home, coral ______ are guided by sounds from reefs at greater distances and by chemical signals when nearer to a site.
larvae
02
Role of coralline algae in reef stability
Coralline algae solidify reefs with calcareous crust, protecting against waves.
