Bacterial associates of two Caribbean coral species reveal species-specific distribution and geographic variability.

ABSTRACT: Scleractinian corals harbor microorganisms that form dynamic associations with the coral host and exhibit substantial genetic and ecological diversity. Microbial associates may provide defense against pathogens and serve as bioindicators of changing environmental conditions. Here we describe the bacterial assemblages associated with two of the most common and phylogenetically divergent reef-building corals in the Caribbean, Montastraea faveolata and Porites astreoides. Contrasting life history strategies and disease susceptibilities indicate potential differences in their microbiota and immune function that may in part drive changes in the composition of coral reef communities. The ribotype structure and diversity of coral-associated bacteria within the surface mucosal layer (SML) of healt

SUBMITTER: Morrow KM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3426691 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature