Electronic Resource
Springer
Coral reefs
8 (1989), S. 99-107
ISSN:
1432-0975
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Geosciences
Notes:
Abstract Attention is drawn to the lack of quantitative ecological information on the calcareous hydrozoan Millepora. In spite of their abundance and geological importance on reefs, little attention has been paid to the millepores compared to the dominant corals. The literature on distribution and abundance on reefs is reviewed and attention is drawn to sources of bias in reported estimates of Millepora abundance. Millepora is shown to have many of the same parasites and predators as scleractinians. The sparse data on growth and production are reviewed and compared with that of corals. The physiological and ecological responses of Millepora to storms and other disturbances appear to be similar to those of the scleractinans but the millepores have escaped attack by the starfish Acanthaster and appear to be immune to the common diseases of corals. The morphological similarities and ecological differences between millepores and scleractinians are discussed in terms of life-history strategies.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00338264
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