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Slattery M, Lesser MP, Rocha LA, Spalding HL, Smith TB. Function and stability of mesophotic coral reefs. Trends Ecol Evol 2024; 39:585-598. [PMID: 38413283 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2024.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
The function and stability of mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) have been extensively studied in recent years. These deep reefs are characterized by local physical processes, particularly the steep gradient in irradiance with increasing depth, and their impact on trophic resources. Mesophotic reefs exhibit distinct zonation patterns that segregate shallow reef biodiversity from ecologically unique deeper communities of endemic species. While mesophotic reefs are hypothesized as relatively stable refuges from anthropogenic stressors and a potential seed bank for degraded shallow reefs, these are site-specific features, if they occur at all. Mesophotic reefs are now known to be susceptible to many of the same stressors that are degrading shallow reefs, suggesting that they require their own specific conservation and management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Slattery
- Department of BioMolecular Science, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS 38677, USA.
| | - Michael P Lesser
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA; School of Marine Science and Ocean Engineering, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - Luiz A Rocha
- Department of Ichthyology, California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA
| | | | - Tyler B Smith
- University of the Virgin Islands, Center for Marine and Environmental Studies, St Thomas, VI 00802-9990, USA
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2
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Ip YCA, Chang JJM, Tun KPP, Meier R, Huang D. Multispecies environmental DNA metabarcoding sheds light on annual coral spawning events. Mol Ecol 2023; 32:6474-6488. [PMID: 35852023 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Synchronous multispecific coral spawning generally occurs annually and forms an integral part of the coral life cycle. Apart from spawning times and species participation, however, much else remains unknown. Here, we applied environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding to study two tropical reef sites of contrasting coral cover before, during and after coral spawning. Using coral-ITS2 and vertebrate-12S markers, we evaluated eDNA as an alternative monitoring tool by assessing its capabilities in detecting spawning species and tracking relative abundances of coral and fish eDNA. Over 3 years, elevated eDNA coral signals during the event (proportional read increase of up to five-fold) were observed, detecting a total of 38 coral and 133 fish species with all but one of the coral species visually observed to be spawning. This is also the first demonstration that eDNA metabarcoding can be used to infer the diurnal partitioning of night- and day-time spawning, spawning in coral species overlooked by visual surveys, and the associated changes in fish trophic structures as an indicator of spawning events. Our study paves the way for applied quantitative eDNA metabarcoding approaches to better study ephemeral and important biological events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Cheong Aden Ip
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jia Jin Marc Chang
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Rudolf Meier
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Danwei Huang
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions, National University of Singapore, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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3
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Sannassy Pilly S, Richardson LE, Turner JR, Roche RC. Atoll-dependent variation in depth zonation of benthic communities on remote reefs. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 173:105520. [PMID: 34775207 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2021.105520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The distribution and organisation of benthic organisms on tropical reefs are typically heterogenous yet display distinct zonation patterns across depth gradients. However, there are few datasets which inform our understanding of how depth zonation in benthic community composition varies spatially among and within different reef systems. Here, we assess the depth zonation in benthic forereef slope communities in the Central Indian Ocean, prior to the back-to-back bleaching events in 2014-2017. We compare benthic communities between shallow (5-10 m) and deep (20-25 m) sites, at two spatial scales: among and within 4 atolls. Our analyses showed the variation in both major functional groups and hard coral assemblages between depth varied among atolls, and within-atoll comparisons revealed distinct differences between shallow and deep forereef slope communities. Indicator taxa analyses characterising the hard coral community between depths revealed a higher number of coral genera characteristic of the deep forereef slopes (10) than the shallow forereef slopes (6). Only two coral genera consistently associated with both depths across all atolls, and these were Acropora and Porites. Our results reveal spatial variation in depth zonation of benthic communities, potentially driven by biophysical processes varying across depths and atolls, and provide a baseline to understand and measure the impacts of future global climate change on benthic communities across depths.
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Montgomery AD, Fenner D, Donahue MJ, Toonen RJ. Community similarity and species overlap between habitats provide insight into the deep reef refuge hypothesis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23787. [PMID: 34893672 PMCID: PMC8664904 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03128-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The deep reef refuge hypothesis (DRRH) postulates that mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) may provide a refuge for shallow coral reefs (SCRs). Understanding this process is an important conservation tool given increasing threats to coral reefs. To establish a better framework to analyze the DRRH, we analyzed stony coral communities in American Sāmoa across MCEs and SCRs to describe the community similarity and species overlap to test the foundational assumption of the DRRH. We suggest a different approach to determine species as depth specialists or generalists that changes the conceptual role of MCEs and emphasizes their importance in conservation planning regardless of their role as a refuge or not. This further encourages a reconsideration of a broader framework for the DRRH. We found 12 species of corals exclusively on MCEs and 183 exclusively on SCRs with another 63 species overlapping between depth zones. Of these, 19 appear to have the greatest potential to serve as reseeding species. Two additional species are listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, Acropora speciosa and Fimbriaphyllia paradivisa categorized as an occasional deep specialist and a deep exclusive species, respectively. Based on the community distinctiveness and minimal species overlap of SCR and MCE communities, we propose a broader framework by evaluating species overlap across coral reef habitats. This provides an opportunity to consider the opposite of the DRRH where SCRs support MCEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony D Montgomery
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Kaneohe, HI, 96744, USA. .,Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Honolulu, HI, 96850, USA.
| | - Douglas Fenner
- Pacific Islands Regional Office, NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, Linker, Inc., Pago Pago, AS, 96799, USA
| | - Megan J Donahue
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Kaneohe, HI, 96744, USA
| | - Robert J Toonen
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, Kaneohe, HI, 96744, USA
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5
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Soto D, De Palmas S, Ho M, Denis V, Allen Chen C. A molecular census of early-life stage scleractinian corals in shallow and mesophotic zones. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:14573-14584. [PMID: 34765126 PMCID: PMC8571570 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.8122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The decline of coral reefs has fueled interest in determining whether mesophotic reefs can shield against disturbances and help replenish deteriorated shallower reefs. In this study, we characterized spatial (horizontal and vertical) and seasonal patterns of diversity in coral recruits from Dabaisha and Guiwan reefs at Ludao, Taiwan. Concrete blocks supporting terra-cotta tiles were placed at shallow (15m) and mesophotic (40m) depths, during 2016-2018. Half of the tiles were retrieved and replaced biannually over three 6-month surveys (short-term); the remainder retrieved at the end of the 18-month (long-term) survey. 451 recruits were located using fluorescent censusing and identified by DNA barcoding. Barcoding the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene resulted in 17 molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs). To obtain taxonomic resolution to the generic level, Pocillopora were phylotyped using the mitochondrial open reading frame (ORF), resolving eight MOTUs. Acropora, Isopora, and Montipora recruits were identified by the nuclear PaxC intron, yielding ten MOTUs. Overall, 35 MOTUs were generated and were comprised primarily of Pocillopora and, in fewer numbers, Acropora, Isopora, Pavona, Montipora, Stylophora, among others. 40% of MOTUs recruited solely within mesophotic reefs while 20% were shared by both depth zones. MOTUs recruiting across a broad depth distribution appear consistent with the hypothesis of mesophotic reefs acting as a refuge for shallow-water coral reefs. In contrast, Acropora and Isopora MOTUs were structured across depth zones representing an exception to this hypothesis. This research provides an imperative assessment of coral recruitment in understudied mesophotic reefs and imparts insight into the refuge hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek Soto
- Biodiversity ProgramTaiwan International Graduate ProgramAcademia Sinica and National Taiwan Normal UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
- Biodiversity Research CenterAcademia SinicaTaipeiTaiwan
- Department of Life ScienceNational Taiwan Normal UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Stéphane De Palmas
- Biodiversity ProgramTaiwan International Graduate ProgramAcademia Sinica and National Taiwan Normal UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
- Biodiversity Research CenterAcademia SinicaTaipeiTaiwan
- Department of Life ScienceNational Taiwan Normal UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Ming‐Jay Ho
- Biodiversity Research CenterAcademia SinicaTaipeiTaiwan
- Green Island Marine Research StationAcademia SinicaLudao, Taitung CountyTaiwan
| | - Vianney Denis
- Institute of OceanographyNational Taiwan UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Chaolun Allen Chen
- Biodiversity Research CenterAcademia SinicaTaipeiTaiwan
- Department of Life ScienceNational Taiwan Normal UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
- Department of Life ScienceTung Hai UniversityTaichungTaiwan
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6
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Fassbender N, Stefanoudis PV, Filander ZN, Gendron G, Mah CL, Mattio L, Mortimer JA, Moura CJ, Samaai T, Samimi-Namin K, Wagner D, Walton R, Woodall LC. Reef benthos of Seychelles - A field guide. Biodivers Data J 2021; 9:e65970. [PMID: 34552373 PMCID: PMC8417027 DOI: 10.3897/bdj.9.e65970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During the 2019 First Descent: Seychelles Expedition, shallow and deep reef ecosystems of the Seychelles Outer Islands were studied by deploying a variety of underwater technologies to survey their benthic flora and fauna. Submersibles, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and SCUBA diving teams used stereo-video camera systems to record benthic communities during transect surveys conducted at 10 m, 30 m, 60 m, 120 m, 250 m and 350 m depths. In total, ~ 45 h of video footage was collected during benthic transect surveys, which was subsequently processed using annotation software in order to assess reef biodiversity and community composition. Here, we present a photographic guide for the visual identification of the marine macrophytes, corals, sponges and other common invertebrates that inhabit Seychelles’ reefs. It is hoped that the resulting guide will aid marine biologists, conservationists, managers, divers and naturalists with the coarse identification of organisms as seen in underwater footage or live in the field. New information A total of 184 morphotypes (= morphologically similar individuals) were identified belonging to Octocorallia (47), Porifera (35), Scleractinia (32), Asteroidea (19), Echinoidea (10), Actiniaria (9), Chlorophyta (8), Antipatharia (6), Hydrozoa (6), Holothuroidea (5), Mollusca (2), Rhodophyta (2), Tracheophyta (2), Annelida (1), Crinoidea (1), Ctenophora (1), Ochrophyta (1) and Zoantharia (1). Out of these, we identified one to phylum level, eight to class, 14 to order, 27 to family, 110 to genus and 24 to species. This represents the first attempt to catalogue the benthic diversity from shallow reefs and up to 350 m depth in Seychelles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico Fassbender
- Nekton Foundation, Oxford, United Kingdom Nekton Foundation Oxford United Kingdom
| | - Paris V Stefanoudis
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom Department of Zoology, University of Oxford Oxford United Kingdom.,Nekton Foundation, Oxford, United Kingdom Nekton Foundation Oxford United Kingdom
| | - Zoleka Nontlantla Filander
- Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, Branch Oceans and Coasts, Cape Town, South Africa Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, Branch Oceans and Coasts Cape Town South Africa
| | - Gilberte Gendron
- Sustainable Ocean Seychelles, Victoria, Seychelles Sustainable Ocean Seychelles Victoria Seychelles
| | - Christopher L Mah
- Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History, Washington, United States of America Smithsonian Institution National Museum of Natural History Washington United States of America
| | - Lydiane Mattio
- University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, South Africa University of Cape Town Rondebosch, Cape Town South Africa.,blue[c]weed, Brest, France blue[c]weed Brest France
| | - Jeanne A Mortimer
- Seychelles' Conservation & Climate Adaptation Trust (SeyCCAT), Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles Seychelles' Conservation & Climate Adaptation Trust (SeyCCAT) Victoria, Mahé Seychelles.,Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America Department of Biology, University of Florida Gainesville, Florida United States of America.,Island Conservation Society (ICS), Point Larue, Mahé, Seychelles Island Conservation Society (ICS) Point Larue, Mahé Seychelles
| | - Carlos J Moura
- OKEANOS / DOP, University of the Azores, Horta, Portugal OKEANOS / DOP, University of the Azores Horta Portugal
| | - Toufiek Samaai
- Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, Branch Oceans and Coasts, Cape Town, South Africa Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, Branch Oceans and Coasts Cape Town South Africa.,University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, South Africa University of Cape Town Rondebosch, Cape Town South Africa.,iZiko Museums of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa iZiko Museums of South Africa Cape Town South Africa.,University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa University of the Western Cape Bellville, Cape Town South Africa
| | - Kaveh Samimi-Namin
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, Netherlands Naturalis Biodiversity Center Leiden Netherlands
| | - Daniel Wagner
- Conservation International, Arlington, United States of America Conservation International Arlington United States of America
| | - Rowana Walton
- James Michel Blue Economy Research Institute, University of Seychelles, Anse Royale, Mahé, Seychelles James Michel Blue Economy Research Institute, University of Seychelles Anse Royale, Mahé Seychelles
| | - Lucy C Woodall
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom Department of Zoology, University of Oxford Oxford United Kingdom.,Nekton Foundation, Oxford, United Kingdom Nekton Foundation Oxford United Kingdom
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Gómez-Andújar NX, Hernandez-Delgado EA. Spatial benthic community analysis of shallow coral reefs to support coastal management in Culebra Island, Puerto Rico. PeerJ 2020; 8:e10080. [PMID: 33088617 PMCID: PMC7568481 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Caribbean coral reefs provide essential ecosystem services to society, including fisheries, tourism and shoreline protection from coastal erosion. However, these reefs are also exhibiting major declining trends, leading to the evolution of novel ecosystems dominated by non-reef building taxa, with potentially altered ecological functions. In the search for effective management strategies, this study characterized coral reefs in front of a touristic beach which provides economic benefits to the surrounding coastal communities yet faces increasing anthropogenic pressures and conservation challenges. Haphazard photo-transects were used to address spatial variation patterns in the reef’s benthic community structure in eight locations. Statistically significant differences were found with increasing distance from the shoreline, reef rugosity, Diadema antillarum density, among reef locations, and as a function of recreational use. Nearshore reefs reflected higher percent macroalgal cover, likely due to increased exposure from both recreational activities and nearby unsustainable land-use practices. However, nearshore reefs still support a high abundance of the endangered reef-building coral Orbicella annularis, highlighting the need to conserve these natural shoreline protectors. There is an opportunity for local stakeholders and regulatory institutions to collaboratively implement sea-urchin propagation, restoration of endangered Acroporid coral populations, and zoning of recreational densities across reefs. Our results illustrate vulnerable reef hotspots where these management interventions are needed and recommend guidelines to address them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás X Gómez-Andújar
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico.,Sociedad Ambiente Marino, San Juan, Puerto Rico.,Marine Resource Management, College of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Edwin A Hernandez-Delgado
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico.,Sociedad Ambiente Marino, San Juan, Puerto Rico.,Center for Applied Tropical Ecology and Conservation, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico
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Li X, Weissman M, Talati A, Svob C, Wickramaratne P, Posner J, Xu D. A diffusion tensor imaging study of brain microstructural changes related to religion and spirituality in families at high risk for depression. Brain Behav 2019; 9:e01209. [PMID: 30648349 PMCID: PMC6379589 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Previously in a three-generation study of families at high risk for depression, we found that belief in the importance of religion/spirituality (R/S) was associated with thicker cortex in bilateral parietal and occipital regions. In the same sample using functional magnetic resonance imaging and electroencephalograph (EEG), we found that offspring at high familial risk had thinner cortices, increased default mode network connectivity, and reduced EEG power. These group differences were significantly diminished in offspring at high risk who reported high importance of R/S beliefs, suggesting a protective effect. METHODS This study extends previous work examining brain microstructural differences associated with risk for major depressive disorder (MDD) and tests whether these are normalized in at-risk offspring who report high importance of R/S beliefs. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data were selected from 99 2nd and 3rd generation offspring of 1st generation depressed (high-risk, HR) or nondepressed (low-risk, LR) parents. Whole-brain and region-of-interest analyses were performed, using ellipsoidal area ratio (EAR, an alternative diffusion anisotropy index comparable to fractional anisotropy). We examined microstructural differences associated with familial risk for depression within the groups of high and low importance of R/S beliefs (HI, LI). RESULTS In the LI group, HR individuals showed significantly decreased EAR in white matter regions neighboring the precuneus, superior parietal lobe, superior and middle frontal gyrus, and bilateral insula, supplementary motor area, and postcentral gyrus. In the HI group, HR individuals showed reduced EAR in white matter surrounding the left superior, and middle frontal gyrus, left superior parietal lobule, and right supplementary motor area. Microstructural differences associated with familial risk for depression in precuneus, frontal lobe, and temporal lobe were nonsignificant or less significant in the HI group. CONCLUSION R/S beliefs may affect microstructure in brain regions associated with R/S, potentially conferring resilience to depression among HR individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuzhou Li
- East China Normal University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York.,New York State Psychiatry Institute, New York, New York
| | - Myrna Weissman
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York.,New York State Psychiatry Institute, New York, New York
| | - Ardesheer Talati
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York.,New York State Psychiatry Institute, New York, New York
| | - Connie Svob
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York.,New York State Psychiatry Institute, New York, New York
| | - Priya Wickramaratne
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York.,New York State Psychiatry Institute, New York, New York
| | - Jonathan Posner
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York.,New York State Psychiatry Institute, New York, New York
| | - Dongrong Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York.,New York State Psychiatry Institute, New York, New York
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Kahng SE, Akkaynak D, Shlesinger T, Hochberg EJ, Wiedenmann J, Tamir R, Tchernov D. Light, Temperature, Photosynthesis, Heterotrophy, and the Lower Depth Limits of Mesophotic Coral Ecosystems. CORAL REEFS OF THE WORLD 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-92735-0_42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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10
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Sexual Reproduction of Scleractinian Corals in Mesophotic Coral Ecosystems vs. Shallow Reefs. CORAL REEFS OF THE WORLD 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-92735-0_35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Beyond the “Deep Reef Refuge” Hypothesis: A Conceptual Framework to Characterize Persistence at Depth. CORAL REEFS OF THE WORLD 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-92735-0_45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
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Lesser MP, Slattery M, Mobley CD. Biodiversity and Functional Ecology of Mesophotic Coral Reefs. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ECOLOGY EVOLUTION AND SYSTEMATICS 2018. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-ecolsys-110617-062423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Mesophotic coral reefs, currently defined as deep reefs between 30 and 150 m, are linked physically and biologically to their shallow water counterparts, have the potential to be refuges for shallow coral reef taxa such as coral and sponges, and might be a source of larvae that could contribute to the resiliency of shallow water reefs. Mesophotic coral reefs are found worldwide, but most are undescribed and understudied. Here, we review our current knowledge of mesophotic coral reefs and their functional ecology as it relates to their geomorphology, changes in the abiotic environment along depth gradients, trophic ecology, their reproduction, and their connectivity to shallow depths. Understanding the ecology of mesophotic coral reefs, and the connectivity between them and their shallow water counterparts, is now a primary focus for many reef studies as the worldwide degradation of shallow coral reefs, and the ecosystem services they provide, continues unabated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P. Lesser
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, and School of Marine Science and Ocean Engineering, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire 03824, USA
| | - Marc Slattery
- Department of BioMolecular Science, University of Mississippi, Oxford, Mississippi 38677, USA
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13
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De Palmas S, Soto D, Denis V, Ho MJ, Chen CA. Molecular assessment of Pocillopora verrucosa (Scleractinia; Pocilloporidae) distribution along a depth gradient in Ludao, Taiwan. PeerJ 2018; 6:e5797. [PMID: 30386700 PMCID: PMC6204238 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.5797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
It can be challenging to identify scleractinian corals from the genus Pocillopora Lamarck 1816 in the field because of their large range of inter- and intra-specific morphological variation that co-occur with changes in the physical environment. This task is made more arduous in the context of a depth gradient, where light and water current could greatly affect the morphology of the corallum. Pocillopora verrucosa (Ellis & Solander 1786) in Taiwan was previously reported exclusively from shallow waters (<10 m in depth), but a recent observation of this species in the mesophotic zone (>40 m in depth) questions this bathymetric distribution. We used the mitochondrial open reading frame and the histone 3 molecular markers to investigate the vertical and horizontal spatial distribution of P. verrucosa around Ludao (Green Island), Taiwan. We genotyped 101 P. verrucosa-like colonies collected from four depth zones, ranging from 7 to 45 m, at three sites around the island. Of the 101 colonies sampled, 85 were genotyped as P. verrucosa, 15 as P. meandrina, and one specimen as an undescribed Pocillopora species. P. verrucosa was found at all depths, while P. meandrina and the undescribed Pocillopora specimen were limited to 15 m depth. P. verrucosa has a large bathymetric distribution around Ludao and could benefit from the refuge that the mesophotic zone offers. This study illustrates the difficulty of identifying Pocillopora corals in the field and emphasizes the relevance of molecular taxonomy as an important and complementary tool to traditional taxonomy for clarifying vertical and horizontal species distribution. Our results also illustrate the need in conservation biology to target species genetic diversity rather than just species diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane De Palmas
- Biodiversity Program, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica and National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Biodiversity Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Derek Soto
- Biodiversity Program, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica and National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Biodiversity Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Vianney Denis
- Institute of Oceanography, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Jay Ho
- Biodiversity Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.,Green Island Marine Research Station, Academia Sinica, Ludao, Taitung County, Taiwan
| | - Chaolun Allen Chen
- Biodiversity Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Oceanography, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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14
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Grinyó J, Viladrich N, Díaz D, Muñoz A, Mallol S, Salazar J, Castillo R, Gili JM, Gori A. Reproduction, energy storage and metabolic requirements in a mesophotic population of the gorgonian Paramuricea macrospina. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203308. [PMID: 30256802 PMCID: PMC6157850 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the sexual reproductive cycle, energy storage and metabolic requirements of a Mediterranean gorgonian in a mesophotic ecosystem (~70 m depth). Paramuricea macrospina resulted to be a gonochoric internal brooding species with a 1:1 population sex ratio. Oogenesis lasted ~12–14 months, whereas spermatogenesis was significantly shorter, only lasting 6 months. Fertilization occurred during late summer (August) and larval release occurred during autumn (September–October). The organic matter and total lipid content showed a slight seasonal variability. Stable isotopic composition remained constant throughout the year, reflecting a general stability in gorgonian food sources. Conversely, the free fatty acid composition varied seasonally, reflecting changes in P. macrospina energetic demands probably related to gametogenesis and larval brooding. The reproductive ecology and biochemical composition of P. macrospina significantly differ from shallow coastal gorgonian species, reflecting the higher environmental stability of deeper environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Grinyó
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Núria Viladrich
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Ciències i Tecnologia Ambiental, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - David Díaz
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía, Centre Oceanogràfic de les Balears, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Anabel Muñoz
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía, Centre Oceanogràfic de les Balears, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Sandra Mallol
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía, Centre Oceanogràfic de les Balears, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Janire Salazar
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raquel Castillo
- Centre de Recerca Ecològica i Aplicacions Forestals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Josep-Maria Gili
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrea Gori
- Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Barcelona, Spain
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Shlesinger T, Grinblat M, Rapuano H, Amit T, Loya Y. Can mesophotic reefs replenish shallow reefs? Reduced coral reproductive performance casts a doubt. Ecology 2018; 99:421-437. [PMID: 29205289 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.2098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 11/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Mesophotic coral ecosystems (i.e., deep coral reefs at 30-120 m depth) appear to be thriving while many shallow reefs in the world are declining. Amid efforts to understand and manage their decline, it was suggested that mesophotic reefs might serve as natural refuges and a possible source of propagules for the shallow reefs. However, our knowledge of how reproductive performance of corals alters with depth is sparse. Here, we present a comprehensive study of the reproductive phenology, fecundity, and abundance of seven reef-building conspecific corals in shallow and mesophotic habitats. Significant differences were found in the synchrony and timing of gametogenesis and spawning between shallow and mesophotic coral populations. Thus, mesophotic populations exhibited delayed or protracted spawning events, which led to spawning of the mesophotic colonies in large proportions at times where the shallow ones had long been depleted of reproductive material. All species investigated demonstrated a substantial reduction in fecundity and/or oocyte sizes at mesophotic depths (40-60 m). Two species (Seriatopora hystrix and Galaxea fascicularis) displayed a reduction in both fecundity and oocyte size at mesophotic depths. Turbinaria reniformis had only reduced fecundity and Acropora squarrosa and Acropora valida only reduced oocyte size. In Montipora verrucosa, reduced fecundity was found during one annual reproductive season while, in the following year, only reduced oocyte size was found. In contrast, reduced oocyte size in mesophotic populations of Acropora squarrosa was consistent along three studied years. One species, Acropora pharaonis, was found to be infertile at mesophotic depths along two studied years. This indicates that reproductive performance decreases with depth; and that although some species are capable of reproducing at mesophotic depths, their contribution to the replenishment of shallow reefs may be inconsequential. Reduced reproductive performance with depth, combined with the possible narrower tolerance to environmental factors, further suggests that mesophotic corals may in fact be more vulnerable than previously conceived. Furthermore, we posit that the observed temporal segregation in reproduction could lead to assortative mating, and this, in turn, may facilitate adaptive divergence across depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Shlesinger
- The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Zoology, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Mila Grinblat
- The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Zoology, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Hanna Rapuano
- The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Zoology, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Tal Amit
- The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Zoology, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel.,The School of Marine Sciences, Ruppin Academic Center, Michmoret, 40297, Israel
| | - Yossi Loya
- The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, School of Zoology, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel
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16
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Reproductive biology of the deep brooding coral Seriatopora hystrix: Implications for shallow reef recovery. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177034. [PMID: 28510601 PMCID: PMC5433689 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs, between 30 and 150 m depth) are hypothesized to contribute to the recovery of degraded shallow reefs through sexually produced larvae (referred to as Deep Reef Refuge Hypothesis). In Okinawa, Japan, the brooder coral Seriatopora hystrix was reported to be locally extinct in a shallow reef while it was found abundant at a MCE nearby. In this context, S. hystrix represents a key model to test the Deep Reef Refuge Hypothesis and to understand the potential contribution of mesophotic corals to shallow coral reef recovery. However, the reproductive biology of mesophotic S. hystrix and its potential to recolonize shallow reefs is currently unknown. This study reports for the first time, different temporal scales of reproductive periodicity and larval settlement of S. hystrix from an upper mesophotic reef (40 m depth) in Okinawa. We examined reproductive seasonality, lunar, and circadian periodicity (based on polyp dissection, histology, and ex situ planula release observations) and larval settlement rates in the laboratory. Mesophotic S. hystrix reproduced mainly in July and early August, with a small number of planulae being released at the end of May, June and August. Compared to shallow colonies in the same region, mesophotic S. hystrix has a 4-month shorter reproductive season, similar circadian periodicity, and smaller planula size. In addition, most of the planulae settled rapidly, limiting larval dispersal potential. The shorter reproductive season and smaller planula size may result from limited energy available for reproduction at deeper depths, while the similar circadian periodicity suggests that this reproductive aspect is not affected by environmental conditions differing with depth. Overall, contribution of mesophotic S. hystrix to shallow reef rapid recovery appears limited, although they may recruit to shallow reefs through a multistep process over a few generations or through random extreme mixing such as typhoons.
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17
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Reich HG, Robertson DL, Goodbody-Gringley G. Do the shuffle: Changes in Symbiodinium consortia throughout juvenile coral development. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0171768. [PMID: 28182684 PMCID: PMC5300206 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0171768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies of symbiotic associations between scleractinians corals and Symbiodinium have demonstrated that the consortium of symbionts can change in response to environmental conditions. However, less is known about symbiont shuffling during early coral development, particularly in brooding species. This study examined whether Symbiodinium consortia (1) varied in Porites astreoides on shallow (10m) and upper mesophotic (30m) reefs, (2) changed during coral development, and (3) influenced growth of juveniles in different environments. Symbiodinium ITS2 sequences were amplified using universal primers and analyzed using phylotype-specific primers designed for phylotypes A, B, and C. Adults from both depths were found to host only phylotype A, phylotypes A and B, or phylotypes A, B, and C and the frequency of the phylotype composition did not vary with depth. However, phylotype A was the dominant symbiont that was vertically transmitted to the planulae. The presence of phylotypes B and C was detected in the majority of juveniles when transplanted onto the shallow and upper mesophotic reefs whereas only phylotype A was detected in the majority of juveniles reared in outdoor aquaria. In addition, growth of juvenile P. astreoides harboring different combinations of Symbiodinium phylotypes did not vary when transplanted to different reef zones. However, juveniles reared in in situ reef environments grew faster than those reared in ex situ outdoor aquaria. These results show that Symbiodinium consortia change during development of P. astreoides and are influenced by environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah G. Reich
- Department of Biology, Clark University, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Deborah L. Robertson
- Department of Biology, Clark University, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
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18
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Pyle RL, Boland R, Bolick H, Bowen BW, Bradley CJ, Kane C, Kosaki RK, Langston R, Longenecker K, Montgomery A, Parrish FA, Popp BN, Rooney J, Smith CM, Wagner D, Spalding HL. A comprehensive investigation of mesophotic coral ecosystems in the Hawaiian Archipelago. PeerJ 2016; 4:e2475. [PMID: 27761310 PMCID: PMC5068450 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.2475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the existence of coral-reef habitats at depths to 165 m in tropical regions has been known for decades, the richness, diversity, and ecological importance of mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) has only recently become widely acknowledged. During an interdisciplinary effort spanning more than two decades, we characterized the most expansive MCEs ever recorded, with vast macroalgal communities and areas of 100% coral cover between depths of 50–90 m extending for tens of km2 in the Hawaiian Archipelago. We used a variety of sensors and techniques to establish geophysical characteristics. Biodiversity patterns were established from visual and video observations and collected specimens obtained from submersible, remotely operated vehicles and mixed-gas SCUBA and rebreather dives. Population dynamics based on age, growth and fecundity estimates of selected fish species were obtained from laser-videogrammetry, specimens, and otolith preparations. Trophic dynamics were determined using carbon and nitrogen stable isotopic analyses on more than 750 reef fishes. MCEs are associated with clear water and suitable substrate. In comparison to shallow reefs in the Hawaiian Archipelago, inhabitants of MCEs have lower total diversity, harbor new and unique species, and have higher rates of endemism in fishes. Fish species present in shallow and mesophotic depths have similar population and trophic (except benthic invertivores) structures and high genetic connectivity with lower fecundity at mesophotic depths. MCEs in Hawai‘i are widespread but associated with specific geophysical characteristics. High genetic, ecological and trophic connectivity establish the potential for MCEs to serve as refugia for some species, but our results question the premise that MCEs are more resilient than shallow reefs. We found that endemism within MCEs increases with depth, and our results do not support suggestions of a global faunal break at 60 m. Our findings enhance the scientific foundations for conservation and management of MCEs, and provide a template for future interdisciplinary research on MCEs worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Pyle
- Natural Sciences, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - Raymond Boland
- Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center, National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, Honolulu, HI, United States; Hawai'i Pacific University, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Holly Bolick
- Natural Sciences, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - Brian W Bowen
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i at Manoa , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - Christina J Bradley
- Life and Environmental Sciences, University of California at Merced, Merced, CA, United States; Department of Oceanography, University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Corinne Kane
- Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, Washington State University , Pullman , WA , United States
| | - Randall K Kosaki
- Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - Ross Langston
- Natural Sciences, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - Ken Longenecker
- Natural Sciences, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - Anthony Montgomery
- Hawai'i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Hawai'i at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, United States; Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Frank A Parrish
- Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center, National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - Brian N Popp
- Department of Geology and Geophysics, University of Hawai'i at Manoa , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - John Rooney
- Joint Institute for Marine and Atmospheric Research, University of Hawai'i at Manoa , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - Celia M Smith
- Department of Botany, University of Hawai'i at Manoa , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - Daniel Wagner
- Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration , Honolulu , HI , United States
| | - Heather L Spalding
- Department of Botany, University of Hawai'i at Manoa , Honolulu , HI , United States
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