Scientists use computers to model ocean-spanning trek of coral larvae
Scientists use computers to model ocean-spanning trek of coral larvae
Published By United Press International
MIAMI, Aug. 21 (UPI) -- Epic, ocean-spanning journeys by coral larvae may predict how coral reef distributions will shift with climate change, U.S. and British researchers say.
The researchers say their study, published in the journal Global Ecology and Biogeography, is the first to identify the oceanic paths along which corals disperse globally.
Coral reefs, under increasing threat from human activity, natural disturbances and climate change, may respond to changing conditions by shifting to more favorable refuges, but their ability to do so will depend on the ocean currents, the researchers reported.
"Dispersal is an extremely important process for corals," Sally Wood at Britain's University of Bristol said. "As they are attached to the seafloor as adults, the only way they can escape harmful conditions or replenish damaged reefs is by releasing their young to the mercy of the ocean currents."
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http://www.upiasia.com/Science-Technology/2013/08/21/Scientists-use-computers-to-model-ocean-spanning-trek-of-coral-larvae/UPI-66851377125628/