From global warming to overfishing, coral reefs are under an onslaught of stresses which degrade these critical ecosystems. Because corals build structures that create habitats for many other species, scientists have long recognised that coral loss results in the collapse of other species that depend on reefs. However, the significance of coral species diversity for corals themselves is less understood.
The Georgia Institute of Technology study found that increasing coral richness by “outplanting” a diverse group of coral species together can improve coral growth and survivorship overall. This finding may be especially important in the early stages of reef recovery following large-scale coral loss, as well as in supporting healthy reefs that in support fisheries, tourism, and protect coasts from extreme weather events.
They warn that, conversely, if more coral species are lost, this could precipitate a “biodiversity meltdown”.
“Corals are the foundation...