Abstract
Numerous species interactions abound within coral reefs, resulting in either positive, negative, or neutral outcomes. During an exploratory dive on the northwest coast of Puerto Rico, divers observed a colonial field of the yellow pencil coral, Madracis auretenra, engulfing a number of giant barrel sponges, Xestospongia muta. This took place on a reef with strong hydrodynamic forces. The nature of this interaction is complex, and may be an adaptive behavior for the coral, since the sponge offers shelter, additional substrate, and exposure to inhalant currents that may carry food and nutrients. This comes at an expense for the sponge, since it has to modify its typical morphology to accommodate the coral’s growth.
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.
