Genetics Reveal that Reef Corals and Their Algae Live Together but Evolve Independently (2 of 3) (IMAGE)

Penn State

Genetics Reveal that Reef Corals and Their Algae Live Together but Evolve Independently (2 of 3)

Caption

Upon settlement, young elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) as shown in this image must acquire their algal partner (Symbiodinium fitti) from the environment. The algal partner is a single-celled dinoflagellate. The partnership between the coral host and just one clonal strain of S. fitti persists over the lifetime of the colony. The performance of both partners will dictate how this colony responds to future environmental stress.

Credit

Iliana B. Baums, Penn State University

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