Older Coral Species More Resilient Than Newer Species

by | Oct 7, 2014 | Corals, Science | 0 comments

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There is legitimate concern over the fate of our natural coral reefs. With rapid consumption, pollution, dredging and environmental factors all leading to the decline in reef health. Diseases are a big cause of reef decline. The University of Texas at Arlington is focusing its concern on the pattern of diseases, and why some species are more susceptible than others. The research was recently published in PLOS ONE. The study involved using 140 samples of corals from 14 different species, which were grouped based by age, with the oldest species being over 200m years. The study found that the oldest coral species could kill up to 41% of bacteria, while the newer species could only kill up to 14.6%, and the oldest corals only suffering from one type of disease, while the newer species suffered up to 6. This research only further shows the importance of maintaining and preserving our existing coral reefs. We need to ensure both the older and younger species are able to thrive and age, therefore strengthening over time. MORE

  • Francis Yupangco

    Francis is a marine biologist with an MBA and over 20 years of professional aquarium experience. Francis is the former Aquatic Development Manager at Hagen USA., makers of Fluval brand aquarium products. He co-stars on Nat Geo WILD's reality TV series Fish Tank Kings where he is the resident "Fish Geek" and was Director of Marketing at Living Color Aquariums. He is an avid explorer having visited over 45 countries and lived in 7. At 17, he was among the youngest aquarists ever hired by the Vancouver Aquarium, where he worked for 7 years. His aquatic biology experience ranges from larval fish rearing to the design, construction and operational management of renowned public aquariums around the world. Francis is currently head of marketing at the world's largest vertically integrated fish farming company.

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