Brain Coral (IMAGE)
Caption
Colony of the symmetrical brain coral, Pseudodiploria strigosa, that is a common reef-building coral in the Caribbean. When under stress, these animals may harbor a species of mutualistic microbe, which was recently discovered to be introduced from the Indo-Pacific. This microscopic symbiont, a dinoflagellate, increases the stress tolerance of native corals, but may significantly reduce the animal's rate of calcification, thus diminishing their role as reef builders.
Credit
Robin T. Smith, Science Under Sail; Sung Yeon Lee and Hae Jin Jeong, Seoul National University
Usage Restrictions
Non commercial use only
License
Licensed content