Ocean acidification and coral skeletal density

Researchers report the effect of ocean acidification on the skeletal growth of corals. Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth, and ocean acidification is considered a major threat to their survival. However, field and laboratory studies examining the effect of acidification on corals have produced inconsistent results. Nathaniel Mollica and colleagues developed a skeletal growth model for Porites, a dominant reef-building coral. Using the model, the authors explored the effect of acidification on coral skeletal density and extension--the processes of coral skeletal growth--and found that acidification influences skeletal density, but not extension. The model incorporates factors that influence skeletal growth, including seawater conditions and polyp geometry, and reproduced skeletal densities of reef Porites reported in previous studies. Next, the authors used the model to evaluate the response of Porites to acidification under a business-as-usual emission scenario. The simulation predicted an average decline of around 12.4% in Porites skeletal density across global reef sites by the end of the 21st century. However, the level of decline varied among reefs, with the largest decreases in skeletal density observed in the coral triangle region. According to the authors, declines in coral skeletal density might increase the susceptibility of reef ecosystems to bioerosion and storm damage.

Article #17-12806: "Ocean acidification affects coral growth by reducing skeletal density," by Nathaniel Mollica et al.

MEDIA CONTACT: Nathaniel Mollica, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, MA; tel: 307-321-6834; e-mail: <nmollica@whoi.edu>

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