In exciting news released on Tuesday, scientists uncovered a hidden network linking coral reefs across the Seychelles, spanning over a vast area of more than a million square kilometres. Through genetic analysis and oceanographic modelling, they unveiled what they call a "coral superhighway," enabling larvae to travel between distant islands.
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Lead author April Burt emphasized the significance of this discovery, highlighting its potential impact on coral reef recovery. Despite widespread coral decline due to climate change and other factors, understanding how larvae move between reefs can guide targeted conservation efforts to enhance reef health and resilience.
The research involved studying samples from 19 reef sites, revealing recent genetic exchange among them, possibly occurring in just a few generations. Additionally, the study hinted at the existence of a new coral species, Porites lutea.
By combining genetic analyses with oceanographic modelling, scientists mapped the routes taken by coral larvae, shedding light on the vital role of ocean currents in connecting reefs. This newfound understanding of "coral connectivity" underscores the importance of physical larval dispersal in sustaining reef ecosystems across the Seychelles.
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