Uncovering The Mystery Of Coral Symbiosis

What We Can't Sea

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Coral reefs are some of the most diverse ecosystems on Earth. They are home to thousands of species of fish, invertebrates, algae. But what makes them so special? Listen to this episode to learn more.

Coral reefs are some of the most beautiful and biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. Corals themselves belong to a group of animals called cnidarians, which also include jellyfish and sea anemones. Corals owe their success to their symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae. The algae live inside coral tissues and use photosynthesis to turn light energy into food, then pass it off to the coral host. In turn, the algae receive a safe home and nutrients from the coral. This cooperative relationship is necessary for the continued existence of coral reefs, but factors such as heat and toxic chemicals can damage this relationship.