The Red Sea coral reef cryptobiome: Spatial and temporal patterns

Susana Carvalho, John K. Pearman

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Coral reefs are one of the most diverse marine ecosystems. Most of the reef biodiversity comprises small organisms that inhabit the cryptic spaces within the reef framework, and these assemblages are known as the cryptobiome. The knowledge of these assemblages is in its infancy, as they have traditionally been overlooked in reef assessments. To gain an understanding of the cryptobiome in the Red Sea, molecular approaches have been combined with standardized protocols using Autonomous Reef Monitoring Structures. This has increased our knowledge of the distribution patterns of the cryptobiome on various spatial scales ranging from within-reef to basin-wide. As well as spatial patterns, the use of standardized methods has enabled robust assessments of temporal changes, including the cryptobiome’s response to a coral bleaching event. Future research should be focused on understanding the ecological functions of the cryptobiome and their symbiotic relationships with the surrounding benthic habitats. Including the cryptobiome in monitoring efforts will give a more holistic overview of the functioning of the reef system and aid in preserving reefs for future generations.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationCoral Reefs and Associated Marine Fauna around the Arabian Peninsula
PublisherCRC Press
Pages9-18
Number of pages10
ISBN (Electronic)9781040047897
ISBN (Print)9781032342900
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2024

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Agricultural and Biological Sciences
  • General Engineering
  • General Business, Management and Accounting
  • General Earth and Planetary Sciences
  • General Environmental Science

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