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Updated: Jul 11, 2026
16:03
A Fish-feeding Laboratory Bioassay to Assess the Antipredatory Activity of Secondary Metabolites from the Tissues of Marine Organisms
Published on: January 11, 2015
Toxicity in sponges and holothurians: a geographic pattern.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|September 13, 1974
Summary
Marine invertebrate toxicity, particularly in sponges and sea cucumbers, increases in lower latitudes and coral reefs. Fish predation pressure is a likely driver for the evolution of chemical defenses in these species.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Chemical Ecology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Toxicity is observed in marine invertebrates like sponges and holothurians.
- This toxicity varies geographically, with higher concentrations in certain regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between latitude and toxicity in sponges and holothurians.
- To explore the role of predation in the evolution of chemical defenses in these taxa.
Main Methods:
- Conducted approximately 700 experiments.
- Performed underwater observations to assess species interactions.
Main Results:
- Toxicity in sponges and holothurians shows an inverse relationship with latitude.
- Holothurian toxicity can reach 100% in high-diversity coral reef ecosystems.
- Evidence suggests fish predation is a significant selective pressure for chemical defenses.
Conclusions:
- Geographic location and ecosystem type influence marine invertebrate toxicity.
- Predation by fish is a key factor driving the evolution of chemical defense mechanisms in sponges and holothurians.
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