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Positive Interactions in the Coral Macro and Microbiome
Tracy D Ainsworth1, Julianna J Renzi2, Brian R Silliman2
1Biological, Earth, and Environmental Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
Trends in Microbiology
|July 15, 2020
Summary
Coral health depends on more than just microbes. Including interstitial associates in the coral metaorganism concept can reveal new ecological and restoration strategies.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Ecology
- Microbiology
Background:
- The coral microbiome is recognized as crucial for coral health.
- Interactions between corals, their microbiomes, and other associated organisms are complex.
- Current research often overlooks non-microbial species living on corals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of interstitial associates in coral ecosystems.
- To advocate for the inclusion of interstitial associates in the coral metaorganism concept.
- To explore how these associations can be utilized for coral ecology and restoration.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on coral-associated species.
- Conceptual framework development for the metaorganism concept.
- Analysis of potential facilitations between corals, microbes, and associates.
Main Results:
- Interstitial associates significantly influence coral-microbe interactions.
- These associates play a key role in the overall coral holobiont.
- Ignoring associates limits understanding of coral resilience and health.
Conclusions:
- Incorporating interstitial associates into the metaorganism concept provides a more holistic view of coral ecosystems.
- Understanding these complex interactions can unlock novel approaches for coral reef restoration and conservation.
- Future research should focus on the functional roles of interstitial associates in mediating coral health.
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