Coral biodiversity and evolution: recent molecular contributions

Abstract

Tropical reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems. Corals, as the most prominent members and framework builders of these communities, deserve special attention, especially in light of the recent decline of coral reefs worldwide. The diversity of corals at various levels has been the subject of many studies, and has traditionally been investigated using morphological characters. This approach has proved insufficient, owing to several ecological and life-history traits of corals. The use of molecular/biochemical approaches has been propelling this discipline forward at an ever-increasing rate for the past decade or so. Reticulate evolution in corals, which has challenged traditional views on the ecology, evolution, and biodiversity of these organisms, is only one example of the results of molecular studies supporting the development of new concepts. We review recent literature reporting studies of the biodiversity, ecology, and evolution of corals in which molecular methods have been employed. We anticipate that in the coming years, an increasing number of studies in molecular biology will generate new and exciting ideas regarding the biology of corals.