Algae disrupt coral reefs' recycling

Coral reefs—the world's most productive and diverse marine ecosystems—rely on a masterful recycling program to stay healthy. The corals and algae that form the base of the reef's food web release a variety of nutrients that support a complex and efficient food chain. But when this system gets out of whack, the cycle breaks down and endangers the coral reef's health. A new study led by researchers at San Diego State University and published today in the journal Nature Microbiology explores how a process known as "microbialization" destroys links in this delicate food chain.

Read the whole article on Physorg

More from Physorg