Photo: Francesco Ungaro | Unsplash
Rising temperatures in our oceans continue to threaten coral reefs. When temperatures get too high, corals bleach and die. Scientists have now found a species of coral that is genetically adapted to warming. However, they have to be careful when transplanting corals from one reef to another. "Coral colonies house many different organisms, not just the coral animal, including microbes, fungi, algae, and invertebrates such as crabs and shrimp." There is a risk that diseases or invasive species are introduced that could overrun the reef. Scientists therefore want to find many heat-resistant corals to ensure compatibility.
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