Algal-invertebrate interactions

Most of our knowledge on the interaction between UVR and mutualistic associations is based on studies on algal-invertebrate symbiosis, particularly on scleractinian corals and their endosymbiotic dinoflagellates, the so-called zooxanthellae from the genus Symbiodinium. Recently, the scientific literature on this topic has been extensively reviewed [33,62,63]. Here, I will only briefly highlight the most important aspects regarding potential population changes in this association as affected by UVR and review the information for other symbiotic relationships. 

Taylor, D.L. (1973) Hie cellular interactions of algal-invertebrate symbiosis, in Adv. Mar. Biol., vol. 11, Academic Press, New York, London, pp. 1—56. 

Soft corals have been shown to release terpene chemicals into the water column.210 Their interactions with other invertebrates,211 or with algae122-212-213 have been monitored. Some algal species cause localized tissue necrosis, or reduce terpene levels, in adjacent soft corals 122 213 however, stressing soft corals by transplanting them to new sites stimulates terpene synthesis.199 Some species of algae, notably the chemically protected Halimeda spp., grow in abundance at the base of soft coral colonies, but the soft coral chemical defense does not play a role in maintaining this association.214... 

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