Coral Reefs Articles

Sequencing a Coral Genome - A $9 million proposal for sequencing a coral genome was made to the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and is under serious consideration. Participants discuss the importance of sequencing, the coral species to sequence and the selection of a representative species or coral "lab rat."

Reefs at Risk - Coral listserve participants discussed the implications of the Reefs at Risk report compiled by the World Resources Institute. The report presents a global view of the potential threats to coral reefs worldwide. Participants examined the conclusions of the report but also discussed the state and condition of the Florida reefs in particular. Other participants examined the nature of the debate itself.

Corals vs. Rain Forests - Coral reef communities often are compared to rainforests in their level of biodiversity. Yet, some within the scientific community debate the accuracy of the analogy. Some believe it is merely a catchy sound bite, while others believe it can be used as a good educational tool. Coral listserve participants discussed the implications of the analogy, as well as the actual similarities and differences between coral reefs and rainforests.

Should Acropora spp. Be Included on the Endangered Species List? - In 1999, National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) was considering listing elkhorn and staghorn corals as candidates for protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). NMFS requested feedback from the scientific community on the possibility, and coral listserve participants discussed the pros and cons of the ESA listing.

Deep water Corals - Some studies show that deep water coral structures occur more frequently and are biologically richer than previously thought. Stemming from the coral reefs vs. rainforests debate, participants discussed deep and cool water reefs. The discussion focused on definitional problems and the accuracy of coral-related terminology.

A Future for Coral Reefs? - A coral scientist recently suggested that coral reefs as we know them are destined for extinction within 50 years, regardless of any action taken now. Participants debated the accuracy of this assertion, whether corals could rapidly adapt to changing conditions, and the likely causes for reef decline..