Researchers at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) have made a groundbreaking discovery about how a free-living coral species navigates its environment. The study found that Cycloseris cyclolites, a small mushroom coral, uses a mechanism called pulsed inflation to move towards light sources.
Led by Dr Brett Lewis, the research team used high-resolution time-lapse imaging to observe the coral’s movement. They discovered that Cycloseris cyclolites inflates and deflates its tissue in rhythmic bursts to propel itself forward, similar to jellyfish. This mechanism allows the coral to self-right when turned upside down, reject sediment during storms, and navigate towards specific light sources.
The study showed that Cycloseris cyclolites has a strong preference for blue light, with 86.7% of the corals moving towards blue light sources. This alignment with their preference for deeper water habitats could be crucial for their survival, reproduction, and dispersal.
The findings have important ecological implications, particularly in understanding how migratory corals might resist or adapt to changes in environmental conditions caused by climate change. By studying the movement strategies of Cycloseris cyclolites, scientists can better predict the impact of these changes on coral populations.
Source: https://www.miragenews.com/coral-mobility-jellyfish-like-movement-uncovered-1395349