Plasticity in the Sclerites of a Gorgonian Coral: Tests of Water Motion, Light Level, and Damage Cues

• DOI: 10.2307/1542721
• Publication Date: 2007-01-23T05:30:51Z
• Authors: J. M. West
• Keywords: Gorgonian

The gorgonian coral Briareum asbestinum contains skeletal elements (sclerites) that vary in length and density within among local populations. Data from previous work suggested the sclerite compositions of colonies may be altered response to environmental cues such as predator damage, water motion, light level. To test these hypotheses, shallow reefs were transplanted racks at a single location where three factors interest artificially manipulated. After 9-14 weeks growth, morphologies densities had not changed shading or water-motion reductions mimicked deep-water conditions. However, did respond significantly two types simulated damage. Following tip amputation, sclerites regenerated tips damaged shorter more dense than controls. In contrast, mid-branch scarring caused produce longer lower densities. Since long deter feeding by predatory snails, increase regions function an inducible defense.