Opportunistic
Infections and Coral Disease
   |
| Sipder on ocean floor |
   |
| Construction in the lab showing fittings |
 |
   |
Incidences of coral disease have dramatically increased over the last two decades. This has led to a large number of studies to document the pathology and potential pathogens involved. Despite this research effort, only two coral pathogens have been identified. We propose that anthropogenic stresses are killing corals by disrupting the bacterial community associated with healthy corals. In collaboration with Nancy Knowlton and Davey Kline, this hypothesis is being tested by applying stresses to different coral species in the presence and absence of antibiotics. Our preliminary data show that many of the commonly cited stressors of corals (e.g., nutrient, organic matter, water temperature,) kill corals under conditions found only on heavily impacted reefs. Interestingly, coral death induced by these treatments can be prevented with antibiotics. This strongly suggests that stress-induced changes in the normal bacterial community, rather than the stresses themselves are responsible for coral mortality. Currently these experiments are being expanded to include a greater variety of stressors (e.g., sedimentation, pesticides, and estrogen compounds) and coral species. To test these theories and collect the necessary data we built "SPIDERS" (Syringe Pumps that are independently Deployable for Emission and Release of solutions). SPIDERS will be used to directly treat corals in the field.
For further information contact:
Forest Rohwer
San Diego State University
619-594-7829
forest@sunstroke.sdsu.edu
