Coral reefs are of great ecological and economical importance, providing millions of people with food, income and coastal protection. However, little is currently known about the molecular mechanisms behind these natural wonders.
The key to coral reefs’ immense productivity and biodiversity is the close and long-term interaction (symbiosis) between corals and photosynthetic algae, which live inside the coral cells and transfer essential nutrients to their hosts. Rising seawater temperature can cause this symbiosis to break down, a phenomenon known as coral ‘bleaching’. The number of bleaching incidents around the world are increasing and have been linked to global climate change.
Further details: Secrets of coral algae interaction revealed