Abstract
X-radiographs of slices cut from massive skeletons of Porites appeared to show more corallites than are present on the slices. The ratio of apparent:real corallites averaged 1.21 ± 0.09 in slices cut from 25 colonies of Porites. This phenomenon was tested by computer-simulated X-radiography of a “slice of skeleton” made up of perfectly packed hexagons. The hexagons simulated corallites. The “slice” was “X-radiographed” at different angles and resulting “density” profiles were averaged. The main contribution to the average profile came from zigzag arrangements of walls within the hexagonal pattern. This arrangement combined with occasional end-to-end arrangements of walls to give a frequency of density peaks slightly higher than the frequency of hexagons. This model is presented as a plausible explanation for the number of corallites apparently seen in X-radiographs.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
