Study at NOAA's Aquarius provides new insight into fish as a key to coral health
This story entered on 14th Oct, 2008 11:31:06 AM PST

A study at NOAA's Aquarius Reef Base is believed to be the first to demonstrate the importance of herbivore diversity in enhancing the growth of coral reefs. This week in the early edition of the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences a report is scheduled to be published suggesting that maintaining the proper balance of herbivorous fishes may be critical to restoring coral reefs, which are declining dramatically worldwide. The conclusion results from a long-term study at Aquarius that found significant recovery in sections of coral reefs on which fish of two complementary species were caged.

To read the full story, go to Science Daily at:: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/10/081008113434.htm

Contact information
Name: Thomas A Potts
Tel: (910) 962-2442
pottst@uncw.edu