Coral Synchrony: Flashcards
What is reproductive synchrony in corals?
Reproductive synchrony in corals is a phenomenon where multiple coral species coordinate their reproductive efforts, releasing gametes simultaneously. This synchronisation is crucial for the survival and dispersal of coral species
What are the primary environmental cues that trigger reproductive synchrony in corals?
- Lunar cycle
- Water temperature
- Wind speeds
How does the lunar cycle influence coral spawning?
Many coral species spawn a few days after the full moon. This timing ensures that gametes are released when tidal currents are favourable for dispersal
What role does water temperature play in coral spawning?
Most corals spawn during warmer months when water temps are optimal for larval development
How does wind speed affect coral spawning?
Corals tend to spawn when winds are at intermediate speeds. This ensures that the gametes are dispersed far enough, but not too far that they end up in unfavourable environments to settle in.
What are the main adaptive advantages of synchronising reproduction in corals?
- Increased chances of successful fertilisation
- Safety in numbers (predator satiation)
- Promotion of genetic diversity
- Improved larval dispersal
- Efficient use of energy resources
How does synchronous spawning increase the chances of successful fertilisation?
By releasing gametes simultaneously, corals create a dense mix of sperm and eggs in the water column, maximising the probability of egg-sperm encounters
What is predator satiation, and how does it benefit corals?
Predator satiation is a strategy where the sheer volume of gametes released during a mass spawning event overwhelms predators, ensuring that a significant portion of the gametes survive to become fertilised and develop into larvae
How does reproductive synchrony promote genetic diversity?
By ensuring that gametes from multiple colonies and even multiple species are mixed in the water column, this strategy increases the likelihood of cross-fertilisation, leading to increased resilience in coral populations
How does synchronised spawning aid in larval dispersal?
The timing of spawning often coincides with favourable currents and intermediate wind speeds that can carry larvae to new areas, promoting colonisation of new habitats and genetic exchange between different reef systems
What is the main risk associated with reproductive synchrony in corals?
A single adverse environmental event during the spawning period could potentially affect an entire years reproductive output for multiple species, making it a vulnerable strategy
Why is understanding reproductive synchrony important for coral reef conservation?
Understanding these processes is crucial for coral reef conservation and management, particularly in the face of global climate change and increasing anthropogenic pressures on marine ecosystems
