Sexual reproduction of Acropora reef corals at Moorea, French Polynesia |
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| Authors: | A. Carroll P. Harrison M. Adjeroud |
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| Affiliation: | (1) School of Environmental Science and Management, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia;(2) National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, Bay Dr, PO Box J321, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450, Australia;(3) Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes, UMR CNRS 8046, Laboratoire “Ecosystèmes Aquatiques Tropicaux et Méditerranéens”, Université de Perpignan, 66860 Perpignan, France;(4) Centre de Recherches Insulaires et Observatoire de l’Environnement (CRIOBE), B.P. 1013, Papetoai, Moorea, French Polynesia |
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| Abstract: | Little information is available on reproductive processes among corals in isolated central Pacific reef regions, including French Polynesia. This study examined the timing and mode of sexual reproduction for Acropora reef corals at Moorea. Spawning was observed and/or inferred in 110 Acropora colonies, representing 12 species, following full moon periods in September through November 2002. Gamete release was observed and inferred in four species of Acropora between 9 and 13 nights after the full moon (nAFM) in September 2002. Twelve Acropora spp. spawned gametes between 5 and 10 nAFM in October 2002, with six species spawning 7 nAFM and four species spawning 9 nAFM. In November 2002, spawning of egg and sperm bundles was observed and inferred in 27 colonies of Acropora austera, 6 nAFM. These are the first detailed records of spawning by Acropora corals in French Polynesia. |
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| Keywords: | Spawning Acropora reef corals Moorea French Polynesia |
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