Aspects of the transplantation, storage and maintenance of corals (Montastraea Faveolata, Acropora Cervicornis and A. Palmata)

Authors

Lillian C. Becker, Florida International University

Document Type

Thesis

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Major/Program

Biology

First Advisor's Name

Walter Goldberg

First Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Co-Chair

Second Advisor's Name

Erich Mueller

Second Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Co-Chair

Third Advisor's Name

Richard Dodge

Fourth Advisor's Name

Laurie Richardson

Date of Defense

7-24-2000

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore aspects of coral transplantation for restoration. Montastraea faveolata cores of 2.54 and 5.0 cm were stored in aquaria, on an array and on the substrate. Survival on the array and substrate were 100% for 12 and 11 months respectively. Branches of Acropora cervicornis had 75.0 % survival on the substrate and 91.7% on the array. Disease caused mortality for the A. cervicornis and the 2.54 cm cores in the aquaria but not for the 5.0 cm cores. Growth was significantly higher for A. cervicornis and A. palmata branches stored on an array than in an open seawater system. The storage type affected growth patterns of both species. M. faveolata fed three times/week increased in surface area significantly more than those fed once and twice/week. Corals fed once per week significantly increased their polyp density. Corals had intermittent respiration while under sub-aerial conditions.

Identifier

FI14050466

Comments

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Recommended Citation

Becker, Lillian C., "Aspects of the transplantation, storage and maintenance of corals (Montastraea Faveolata, Acropora Cervicornis and A. Palmata)" (2000). FIU Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1467.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/1467