Featured Image:waikikiaquarium.org
Researchers at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science have discovered a unique immunity gene that could be key to coral reef survival in the future.
The gene was found in the cauliflower coral’s genome. Around 30% of the genome was unique in comparison to other similar coral species. Most of those unique genes were related to immunity functions.
This species may become an important part of coral reef survival in the future. According to researcher Nikki Traylor-Knowles, “This coral is traditionally thought of as a weed, and yet it may be one of the last corals to survive environmental changes such as climate change.”
A strong immune system will be key for the survival of this species. It is likely that this coral species will survive for a longer period of time based on its diversity of immunity genes. Without this diversity, the coral is left without an effective way to defend itself.
As you likely know, many coral species around the world are dying in massive numbers. This “weedy species” of coral is a reason to hope for the long term survival of coral reef habitat.
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