3D printed objects do not impact the behavior of a coral-associated damselfish or survival of a settling stony coral.

ABSTRACT: 3D printing technology offers significant advantages in the development of objects and tools across an array of fields and has been implemented in an increasing number of ecological studies. As rates of degradation or chemical leaching of 3D printed models has not been well documented under environmental conditions, it is essential to examine if these objects will alter the behavior or impact the survivorship of the focal species prior to widespread implementation. Here, we explored the efficacy of using 3D printed models in coral reef behavioral research, an area of study where this form of additive manufacturing could offer significant advantages. Coral-associated blue-green chromis (Chromis viridis) individuals were exposed to natural and 3D printed coral habitats, and larval mustard hi

SUBMITTER: Ruhl EJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6697346 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature