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Dryad

Data from: Unrecognized coral species diversity masks differences in functional ecology

Cite this dataset

Boulay, Jennifer N. et al. (2014). Data from: Unrecognized coral species diversity masks differences in functional ecology [Dataset]. Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.d6108

Abstract

Porites corals are foundation species on Pacific reefs but a confused taxonomy hinders understanding of their ecosystem function and responses to climate change. Here, we show that what has been considered a single species in the eastern tropical Pacific, Porites lobata, includes a morphologically similar yet ecologically distinct species, Porites evermanni. While P. lobata reproduces mainly sexually, P. evermanni dominates in areas where triggerfish prey on bioeroding mussels living within the coral skeleton, thereby generating asexual coral fragments. These fragments proliferate in marginal habitat not colonized by P. lobata. The two Porites species also show a differential bleaching response despite hosting the same dominant symbiont subclade. Thus, hidden diversity within these reef-builders has until now obscured differences in trophic interactions, reproductive dynamics and bleaching susceptibility, indicative of differential responses when confronted with future climate change.

Usage notes

Location

Galapagos
Ecuador
Clipperton Island
Caño Island
Eastern Tropical Pacific
Panama
Cocos Island
Mexico
Costa Rica