Understanding the mechanisms of thermal acclimation in the symbiotic algae (Symbiodinium) within cnidarian corals

  • Takahashi, Shunichi (PI)

    Project: Research

    Project Details

    Description

    Corals harbor endosymbiotic algae (Symbiodinium) which are essential for providing photosynthate for coral growth. Increases in seawater temperatures destroy this symbiotic relationship and lead to coral bleaching. The thermal sensitivity of corals to bleaching is strongly affected by the thermal tolerance of Symbiodinium and this differs between variant algal species. The mechanisms responsible for thermal acclimation and tolerance in Symbiodinium are unclear and the aim of this proposal is to identify proteins (genes) and mechanisms associated with this thermal acclimation process. An understanding of thermal acclimation mechanisms in Symbiodinium will provide new insight into how coral reefs can respond to rising global temperature.
    StatusFinished
    Effective start/end date1/01/1130/09/14

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