Abstract
Habitat fragmentation means that many species occur in discrete populations1, so it is important for sessile species to colonize new areas. It has not been clear how sponges whose larvae disperse over short distances achieve this. Fragments may break off sponges as a result of physical and biological disturbance and are then dispersed by currents and recruited as independent individuals or colonies2,3. Local populations are expected to have high genetic relatedness as a result, but most sponge populations have high levels of genetic variability4,5. We suggest that this discrepancy results from an interaction between fragmentation and sexual reproduction.
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 callDisclaimer: 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.
