Suppression of herbivory by macroalgal density: a critical feedback on coral reefs?

Hoey, Andrew S., and Bellwood, David R. (2011) Suppression of herbivory by macroalgal density: a critical feedback on coral reefs? Ecology Letters, 14 (3). pp. 267-273.

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Abstract

Coral reefs globally are in decline, with some reefs undergoing phase shifts from coral-dominance to degraded states dominated by large fleshy macroalgae. These shifts have been underpinned by the overharvesting of herbivorous fishes and represent a fundamental change in the physical structure of these reefs. Although the physical structure provided by corals is regarded as a key feature that facilitates herbivore activity, the influence of the physical structure of macroalgal stands is largely unknown. Using transplanted Sargassum, the largest coral reef macroalga, we created habitat patches of predetermined macroalgal density (0.25–6.23 kg m−2). Remote video cameras revealed both grazing and browsing fishes avoided high density patches, preferring relatively open areas with low macroalgal cover. This behaviour may provide a positive feedback leading to the growth and persistence of macroalgal stands; increasing the stability of phase shifts to macroalgae.

Item ID: 18823
Item Type: Article (Research - C1)
ISSN: 1461-0248
Keywords: coral reef, feedback, herbivory, macroalgae, phase shift, resilience, Sargassum, structural complexity
Additional Information:

All additional supporting information has been combined into a single PDF. Individuals files can be found at: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1461-0248.2010.01581.x/suppinfo

Date Deposited: 09 Oct 2011 23:22
FoR Codes: 06 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES > 0602 Ecology > 060205 Marine and Estuarine Ecology (incl Marine Ichthyology) @ 100%
SEO Codes: 96 ENVIRONMENT > 9608 Flora, Fauna and Biodiversity > 960808 Marine Flora, Fauna and Biodiversity @ 100%
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