The effect of demersal reef fish on the gorgonians Pterogorgia anceps and Plexaurella grisea was determined under controlled conditions. Demersal reef fish cause significant changes in Pterogorgia anceps zooxanthellae concentration (cells cm-3), bulk density (g cm-3), and spicule concentration (g cm-3). Growth rates as measured by changes in planar area (cm2) are not significantly affected. No significant differences were found among any of the parameters measured for Plexaurella grisea; however, trends in the data were similar to those of P. anceps.
| Date of Award | Jan 1 1992 |
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| Original language | English |
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| Supervisor | Richard E. Dodge (Supervisor) & Curtis M. Burney (Advisor) |
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