Extended phenotypes on coral reefs: cryptic phenotypes modulate coral-vermetid interactions

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Ecology
• Genetics

Background:

• Phenotypic variation influences species interactions.
• Variation in traits can stem from plasticity, genetics, or both.
• Extended phenotypes, including associated microbes, can also play a role.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the roles of plasticity and heritable diversity in Porites coral phenotypic traits and performance.
• To assess the impact of prior exposure to vermetid gastropods on coral traits and survival.

Main Methods:

• Reciprocal transplant experiment with Porites corals.
• Measurement of phenotypic traits related to coral performance.
• Analysis of coral mitotypes and associated microbial communities.

Main Results:

• Many coral traits exhibited plastic responses to vermetid exposure.
• Vermetids reduced coral calcification and altered microbial composition.
• Heritable differences in coral mitotypes were observed, correlating with vermetid presence and tissue thickness.

Conclusions:

• Both plasticity and heritable variation shape coral phenotypes and interactions.
• Vermetids and microbes contribute to the extended phenotype of corals.
• Coral genotypes can influence reef trajectories and susceptibility to degradation.