Higher population genetic diversity within the algal symbiontDurusdiniuminPocillopora verrucosafrom Mexican Pacific reefs correlates with higher resistance to bleaching after the El Niño 2015–16 event

• DOI: 10.1111/maec.12667
• Publication Date: 2021-06-21T10:00:13Z
• Authors: María Angeles Cár...; Héctor Nava; Antonio González‐...; Yurixhi Maldonado...; Mauricio Rodrígue...
• Keywords: Zooxanthellae; Symbiodinium; Coral bleaching

Abstract Zooxanthellae are dinoflagellate algae belonging to the family Symbiodiniaceae that provide energy and oxygenation corals, allowing them develop a high calcification rate. Additionally, some species of these algal symbionts seem be related coral resistance particular environmental conditions, such responses have potential cope with climate change phenomena. In this study, we examined role symbiont diversity in corals thermal stress along four reefs from Mexican Pacific after “El Niño” event 2015–16. To assess composition genetic populations zooxanthellae, 28S ITS2 nrRNA genes were amplified sequenced total 102 fragments Pocillopora verrucosa . The resulting phylogenetic trees both molecular markers showed all sequences grouped within clade D corresponding genus Durusdinium , closely subtypes D1.1 D1.2, respectively. presence has been ability hosts endure stress. Analysis haplotype networks higher number haplotypes for comparison marker, 28 5 haplotypes, With Islote Zacatoso differentiated more mutational steps, showing highest diversity. This population was associated suffered minimum bleaching during El Niño Moreover, Playa Las Gatas had lowest area incidence mortality bleaching. way, discuss possible relationship between local external conditions current zooxanthellae as modulators response stress: seems