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Phenotypic plasticity can buffer organisms against short-term environmental fluctuations. For example, previous exposure to increased temperatures can increase thermal tolerance in many species. Prior studies have found that acclimation to higher temperature can influence the magnitude of transcriptional response to subsequent acute thermal stress (hereafter, transcriptional response modulation). However, mechanisms mediating this gene expression response and, ultimately, phenotypic plasticity remain largely unknown. Epigenetic modifications are good candidates for modulating transcriptional response, as they broadly correlate with gene expression. Here, we investigate changes in DNA methylation as a possible mechanism controlling shifts in gene expression plasticity and thermal acclimation in the reef-building coral Acropora nana. We find that gene expression response to acute stress is altered in corals acclimated to different temperatures, with many genes exhibiting a dampened response to heat stress in corals pre-conditioned to higher temperatures. At the same time, we observe shifts in methylation during both acclimation (11 days) and acute heat stress (24 h). We observed that the acute heat stress results in shifts in gene-level methylation and elicits an acute transcriptional response in distinct gene sets. Further, acclimation-induced shifts in gene expression plasticity and differential methylation also largely occur in separate sets of genes. Counter to our initial hypothesis no overall correlation between the magnitude of differential methylation and the change in gene expression plasticity. We do find a small but statistically significant overlap in genes exhibiting both dampened expression response and shifts in methylation (14 genes), which could be candidates for further inquiry. Overall, our results suggest transcriptional response modulation occurs independently from methylation changes induced by thermal acclimation.

Coral reefs are facing unprecedented threats due to climate change and local stressors,necessitating a better understanding of their responses and resilience mechanisms regionally. This study examines the impacts of the 2020 mass bleaching event on coral reef dynamics in Kenting National Park, Taiwan, using large-area imaging (LAI) technology. Four sites were analyzed, revealing insights into coral abundance, planar area, size distribution, and survivalrates of two common coral taxa, corymbose Pocillopora and massive Porites. Whilerestricted in scope, our findings highlight the resilience and adaptability of coral species inthe face of environmental stressors. Despite limitations, our study underscores the importance of LAI data in providing detailed insights into coral reef demography and dynamics, serving as both a scientific analysis tool and a means of effective science communication. Further research is needed to fully understand underlying mechanisms and ensure the long-termsustainability of coral reef ecosystems in Kenting National Park.

Background: Coral reefs experience frequent and severe disturbances that can overwhelm their natural resilience. In such cases, ecological restoration is essential for coral reef recovery. Sexual reproduction has been reported to present the simplest and most cost-effective means for coral reef restoration. However, larval settlement and post-settlement survival represent bottlenecks for coral recruitment in sexual reproduction. While bacteria play a significant role in triggering coral metamorphosis and settlement in many coral species, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, we employed a transcriptome-level analysis to elucidate the intricate interactions between bacteria and coral larvae that are crucial for the settlement process. Results: High Metabacillus indicus strain cB07 inoculation densities resulted in the successful induction of metamorphosis and settlement of coral Pocillopora damicoris larvae. Compared with controls, inoculated coral larvae exhibited a pronounced increase in the abundance of strain cB07 during metamorphosis and settlement, followed by a significant decrease in total lipid contents during the settled stage. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during metamorphosis were significantly enriched in amino acid, protein, fatty acid, and glucose related metabolic pathways. In settled coral larvae induced by strain cB07, there was a significant enrichment of DEGs with essential roles in the establishment of a symbiotic relationship between coral larvae and their symbiotic partners. The photosynthetic efficiency of strain cB07 induced primary polyp holobionts was improved compared to those of the negative controls. In addition, coral primary polyps induced by strain cB07 showed significant improvements in energy storage and survival. Conclusions: Our findings revealed that strain cB07 can promote coral larval settlement and enhance post-settlement survival and fitness. Manipulating coral sexual reproduction with strain cB07 can overcome the current recruitment bottleneck. This innovative approach holds promise for future coral reef restoration efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the mineralization of coral is significant for the formation of coral reefs and paleoclimatic reconstructions. However, the fundamental mechanisms involved in biomineralization are poorly understood. A combination of Raman spectral and cross-polarized reflected light microscopy imaging was used to examine the three-dimensional spatial distribution of the skeletal ultrastructures and their associated mineral, organic, and water chemistry in coral, which enable insight into the spatial growth features of the ultrastructures and possible formation processes. A possible mechanism is proposed that controls the formation of skeletal ultrastructures, which likely involves compartmentalized calcifying cells and their related cellular activities. This could clarify the association between coral skeletal mineralization and biology, and it may be beneficial to better protection and application of coral reefs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indonesia is an archipelagic country with two continents and an ocean, where it produces abundant marine products and the second largest marine source in the world, such as cuttlefish. Besides, it was for food, cuttlefish also produced shells as waste. Actually, this waste has been used for animal feed but in small scale. Others are still waste and cause pollution if not handled properly. Cuttlefish shell waste (CSW) is the basic ingredient for making hydroxyapatite (HA), while it was the main bone compound. Meanwhile, HA demand in the market is very high due to bone defects. The novelty of the research was to fulfil the increasing need for HA at low price and prevent air, water, and soil pollution by using circular economic principles (reused), and it has economic value. Synthesis HA was used microwave hydrothermal method. The CSW and coral were obtained from the pet market in Yogyakarta. They were crushed and calcined to the temperature of 900°C to obtain calcium oxide (CaO). Then, CaO was synthesized by microwave hydrothermal to obtain HA powder. Synthetic HA was characterized by the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The Ca/P ratio of HA CSW and coral are 1.7 and 1.87, respectively. Moreover, coral HA has higher crystallinity than CSW (48%). The TGA shows that the highest weight loss occurred in HA CSW (16.57%). The conclusion is that both CSW and coral are raw materials used to produce HA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have revealed that stony corals create their extracellular skeletons via biologically controlled calcification, in which amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC), regarded as precursors of aragonite crystals, have been observed at nanoscale using electron microscopy. However, the exact mechanism by which ACC is generated, and how it contributes to skeletal growth in coral calcifying tissue, remains enigmatic. The septal skeleton of an individual polyp is composed of radially aligned plates extending upward from the aboral calcifying tissue. This structure includes microstructure known as the centers of calcification (CoC). However, despite its importance, direct in vivo observation of septal growth has not been reported. Observations under transmitted illumination using polarized light microscopy on calcifying tissue of young Acropora digitifera revealed small crystals, a few micrometers in size, that accompany subtle movements and that emerge exclusively on the inner wall of the pocket in extracellular calcifying fluid (ECF). Crystal growth initiated from small, scattered crystals on a glass plate resembles this phenomenon observed in coral skeletons. Time-lapse photographs of 12 individuals in early primary polyp settlement revealed this process in three individuals, documenting 13 of these crystal events. This phenomenon occurred solely at the bases of subsequently formed septa. These crystals differ notably from fusiform crystals and from dumbbell-like or rod-like crystals growing individually. Upright two-photon microscopy captured movement of sub-micron-sized fluorescent calcein-accumulating particles, emphasizing their presence on the surface of the growing fronts of septa. Methodological advances that facilitate comprehensive in vivo observation of sub-micron-sized structures, calcein-accumulating particles to the skeleton, are needed to develop a more detailed understanding of coral skeletal growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The future survival of coral reefs in the Anthropocene depends on the capacity of corals to adapt as oceans warm and extreme weather events become more frequent. Targeted interventions designed to assist evolutionary processes in corals require a comprehensive understanding of the distribution and structure of standing variation, however, efforts to map genomic variation in corals have so far focussed almost exclusively on SNPs, overlooking structural variants that have been shown to drive adaptive processes in other taxa. Here, we show that the reef‐building coral, Acropora kenti, harbours at least five large, highly polymorphic structural variants, all of which exhibit signatures of strongly suppressed recombination in heterokaryotypes, a feature commonly associated with chromosomal inversions. Based on their high minor allele frequency, uniform distribution across habitats and elevated genetic load, we propose that these inversions in A. kenti are likely to be under balancing selection. An excess of SNPs with high impact on protein‐coding genes within these loci elevates their importance both as potential targets for adaptive selection and as contributors to genetic decline if coral populations become fragmented or inbred in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coral skeletal B/Ca (effectively B/CO 3 2–), in combination with boron isotopic composition (δ11B), has been used to reconstruct the dissolved inorganic carbon chemistry of coral calcification media and to explore the biomineralisation process and its response to ocean acidification. This approach assumes that B(OH) 4 −, the B species incorporated into aragonite, competes with dissolved inorganic carbon species for inclusion in the mineral lattice. In this study we precipitated aragonite from seawater in vitro under conditions that simulate the compositions of the calcification media used to build tropical coral skeletons. To deconvolve the effects of pH and [CO 3 2–] on boron incorporation we conducted multiple experiments at constant [CO 3 2–] but variable pH and at constant pH but variable [CO 3 2–], both in the absence and presence of common coral skeletal amino acids. Large changes in solution [CO 3 2–], from < 400 to >1000 µmol kg−1, or in precipitation rate, have no significant effect on aragonite B/Ca at pH total of 8.20 and 8.41. A significant inverse relationship is observed between solution [CO 3 2–] and aragonite B/Ca at pH total = 8.59. Aragonite B/Ca is positively correlated with seawater pH across precipitations conducted at multiple pH but this relationship is driven by the effect of pH on the abundance of B(OH) 4 – in seawater. Glutamic acid and glycine enhance the incorporation of B in aragonite but aspartic acid has no measurable effect. Normalising aragonite B/Ca to solution [B(OH) 4 –] creates K D B(OH)4− which do not vary significantly between pH treatments. This implies that B(OH) 4 – and CO 3 2– do not compete with each other for inclusion in the aragonite lattice at pH total 8.20 and 8.41. Only at high pH (8.59), when [B(OH) 4 –] is high, do we observe evidence to suggest that the 2 anions compete to be incorporated into the lattice. These high pH conditions represent the uppermost limits reliably measured in the calcification media of tropical corals cultured under present day conditions, suggesting that skeletal B/Ca may not reflect the calcification media dissolved inorganic carbon chemistry in all modern day corals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The behaviours and needs of nocturnal animals can be overlooked by humans, potentially because of our poor night vision and diurnal waking hours. Despite certain challenges in studying many nocturnal animals, appropriate provisions for their welfare should be supported in both wild and managed environments. To investigate this issue and explore ways to offer technology-enhanced welfare, husbandry practices and enrichment opportunities for nocturnal species, we conducted a multidisciplinary workshop (Moon Jam). During the event, species experts provided animal welfare briefs that related to specific challenges for nocturnal animals in different contexts. Teams of participants addressed these challenges in collaborative design sessions, producing a collection of hand-crafted models to share their ideas. An important aspect of the workshop was to be inclusive of all the stakeholders involved, including zoo management teams, animal stewards and zoo visitors, as well as the individual species. In this paper, we present our reflections on managed nocturnal animal welfare, framing these within current practices and Moon Jam workshop outputs. We contribute a set of guidelines for those involved with caring for zoo-housed nocturnal species, emphasizing the provision of technology-enhanced husbandry and enrichment opportunities. This paper addresses the potential for technology to support husbandry and enrichment opportunities that enhance the welfare of zoo and sanctuary-housed nocturnal and crepuscular species. This topic was investigated through the medium of a multidisciplinary workshop (Moon Jam) that brought together species experts, zoo designers, Animal-Computer Interaction researchers and post-graduate students in collaborative discussions and design sessions. We explain the context through an examination of existing research and current practices, and report on specific challenges raised and addressed during the Moon Jam, highlighting and discussing key themes that emerged. Finally, we offer a set of guidelines to support the integration of technology into the design of animal husbandry and enrichment that support wellbeing, to advance the best practices in keeping and managing nocturnal and crepuscular animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coral holobiont is underpinned by complex metabolic exchanges between different symbiotic partners, which are impacted by environmental stressors. The chemical diversity of the compounds produced by the holobiont is high and includes primary and secondary metabolites, as well as volatiles. However, metabolites and volatiles have only been characterised in isolation so far. Here, we applied a paired metabolomic-volatilomic approach to characterise holistically the chemical response of the holobiont under stress. Montipora mollis fragments were subjected to high-light stress (8-fold higher than the controls) for 30 min. Photosystem II (PSII) photochemical efficiency values were 7-fold higher in control versus treatment corals immediately following high-light exposure, but returned to pre-stress levels after 30 min of recovery. Under high-light stress, we identified an increase in carbohydrates (> 5-fold increase in arabinose and fructose) and saturated fatty acids (7-fold increase in myristic and oleic acid), together with a decrease in fatty acid derivatives in both metabolites and volatiles (e.g., 80% decrease in oleamide and nonanal), and other antioxidants (~ 85% decrease in sorbitol and galactitol). These changes suggest short-term light stress induces oxidative stress. Correlation analysis between volatiles and metabolites identified positive links between sorbitol, galactitol, six other metabolites and 11 volatiles, with four of these compounds previously identified as antioxidants. This suggests that these 19 compounds may be related and share similar functions. Taken together, our findings demonstrate how paired metabolomics-volatilomics may illuminate broader metabolic shifts occurring under stress and identify linkages between uncharacterised compounds to putatively determine their functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plutonium oxalate supernatant requires a treatment step for further recovery of the residual Pu. As the oxalate ion present in the solution poses problems during the recovery of Pu, it needs to be destroyed. In the present work, Mn2+ based catalytic destruction of oxalate ion was studied in detail, as it could minimize the generation of secondary radioactive waste compared to the conventional process. The effect of various parameters, namely concentrations of HNO3, catalyst, oxalic acid and effect of the metal ion has been studied. Moreover, the robustness of the catalytic destruction method along with the kinetics of oxalate destruction reaction has been investigated. The process was also demonstrated with Pu supernatant generated from CORAL at 1 L scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coral‐based stable oxygen isotopes (δ18O) have been used as a proxy for sea surface temperature (SST) since the 1970s, and δ18O–SST calibration studies have been fundamental to assure robust and faithful SST reconstructions. Paleoclimatic studies based on corals from the tropical western South Atlantic (TWSA) are scarce, and the available coral species need to be calibrated to improve climate and environmental reconstructions. Siderastrea stellata, a slow‐growing coral, is a potential species to be explored as a coral archive in the TWSA. We provide the first multi‐site δ18O–SST calibration for the coral S. stellata from three locations at the TWSA: Todos os Santos Bay, Tamandaré and the Rocas Atoll. Pseudo‐coral δ18O calculations derived from gridded SSS and SST show that the contributions of SSS and SST to coral δ18O are expected to be different at each site. Weighted least squares linear regressions performed between the δ18O and SST generated the following calibrations equations: δ18O = −0.18 (±0.02) × SST (°C) + 1.90 (±0.47) for Todos os Santos Bay; δ18O = −0.18 (±0.02) × SST (°C) + 1.54 (±0.67) for Tamandaré; and δ18O = −0.16 (±0.03) × SST (°C) + 1.24 (±0.71) for the Rocas Atoll. The δ18O‐SST sensitivity of S. stellata from the TWSA is similar to that of other slow‐growing species of the genus and consistent with the expected δ18O‐SST sensitivity of other species reported in the literature. These calibrations will allow future SST reconstructions based on δ18O records from sub‐fossil and fossil S. stellata, an abundant species in the TWSA. Plain Language Summary: Corals continuously biomineralize calcium carbonate, storing environmental information within their exoskeletons in geochemical and isotopic records that span hundreds of years and making them suitable for high‐resolution climate reconstructions. The stable oxygen isotopes (δ18O) found in corals are an important proxy for revealing past sea surface temperatures (SST) and sea surface salinities (SSS). However, to ensure that this proxy is applicable to reconstruct past SST, further δ18O–SST calibration studies are needed on various regions and species. In this study, we carried out three field work experiments to provide the first multi‐site δ18O–SST calibration of the slow‐growing coral Siderastrea stellata from the western South Atlantic. Despite the slow growth nature of S. stellata corals that poses a challenge to high temporal resolution sampling, we successfully provided new calibration equations for SST reconstruction from three different locations in the western South Atlantic. Our calibration equations can now be applied to reconstruct SST based on coral δ18O records from sub‐fossil and fossil coral cores. Key Points: First multi‐site δ18O‐SST calibrations for the slow‐growing coral Siderastrea stellata from the western South Atlanticδ18O–SST sensitivity for S. stellata varied from −0.15 to −0.19‰ per °C across the different reef environmentsThis study paves the way for using S. stellata δ18O from fossil and subfossil corals for paleoclimate reconstructions from the western South Atlantic [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global coral reef degradation has precipitated phase shifts toward macroalgal-dominated communities. Despite the negative repercussions for reefscapes, higher abundances of primary producers have the potential to positively impact the physicochemical environment and mitigate negative impacts of ocean acidification (OA). In this study, we investigated the influence of macroalgal (cf. Sargassum vulgare) density on coral (Acropora millepora and A. hemprichii) calcification rates under current and future OA conditions. Corals were resistant to OA up to ~ 1100 µatm, with no changes in calcification rates. However, the presence of (low and high density) algae reduced calcification rates by ~ 41.8%, suggesting either a chemical defense response due to algal metabolites or potential physical impacts from shading or abrasion. Documented beneficial buffering effects of macroalgae in OA may also elicit negative impacts on coral calcification, suggesting further work is needed to elucidate how species interactions influence responses to projected climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated temperatures cause mass coral bleaching, leading to reef degradation. The frequency of bleaching events is increasing, and severe bleaching events have been predicted to occur annually in the next few decades. However, the ability of corals to acclimate and adapt to these unprecedented stresses remains unknown. In this study, we investigated how three years of consecutive thermal stress affect the adult fragments of the coral Acropora tenuis. The fragments were exposed to temperature treatments of ~ 28 °C (control) and ~ 31 °C (heat stress) until they began to bleach. We measured the survival rate, maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) of the symbiotic algae, and algal density of the fragments. The survival rate of the fragments under thermal stress decreased over the three-year period, reaching 20% by the end. Additionally, we observed a decrease in Fv/Fm and a reduction in algal density in the stressed fragments compared to those in the control fragments during all three years of the thermal stress period. These findings collectively suggested that consecutive bleaching-level thermal stress increases the susceptibility of corals to heat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corals in marginal reef habitats generally exhibit less bleaching and associated mortality compared to nearby corals in more pristine reef environments. It is unclear, however, if these differences are due to environmental differences, including turbidity, or genomic differences between the coral hosts in these different environments. One particularly interesting case is in the coral genus Porites, which contains numerous morphologically similar massive Porites species inhabiting a wide range of reef habitats, from turbid river deltas and stagnant back reefs to high-energy fore reefs. Here, we generate ddRAD data for 172 Porites corals from river delta and adjacent (<0.5 km) fore reef populations on Guam to assess the extent of genetic differentiation among massive Porites corals in these two contrasting environments and throughout the island. Phylogenetic and population genomic analyses consistently identify seven different clades of massive Porites, with the two largest clades predominantly inhabiting either river deltas or fore reefs, respectively. No population structure was detected in the two largest clades, and Cladocopium was the dominant symbiont genus in all clades and environments. The perceived bleaching resilience of corals in marginal reefs may therefore be attributed to interspecific differences between morphologically similar species, in addition to potentially mediating environmental differences. Marginal reef environments may therefore not provide a suitable refuge for many reef corals in a heating world, but instead host additional cryptic coral diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The symbiosis between corals and dinoflagellates of the family Symbiodiniaceae is sensitive to environmental stress. The oxidative bleaching hypothesis posits that extreme temperatures lead to accumulation of photobiont-derived reactive oxygen species ROS, which exacerbates the coral environmental stress response (ESR). To understand how photosymbiosis modulates coral ESRs, these responses must be explored in hosts in and out of symbiosis. We leveraged the facultatively symbiotic coral Astrangia poculata, which offers an opportunity to uncouple the ESR across its two symbiotic phenotypes (brown, white). Colonies of both symbiotic phenotypes were exposed to three temperature treatments for 15 days: (i) control (static 18 °C), (ii) heat challenge (increasing from 18 to 30 °C), and (iii) cold challenge (decreasing from 18 to 4 °C) after which host gene expression was profiled. Cold challenged corals elicited widespread differential expression, however, there were no differences between symbiotic phenotypes. In contrast, brown colonies exhibited greater gene expression plasticity under heat challenge, including enrichment of cell cycle pathways involved in controlling photobiont growth. While this plasticity was greater, the genes driving this plasticity were not associated with an amplified environmental stress response (ESR) and instead showed patterns of a dampened ESR under heat challenge. This provides nuance to the oxidative bleaching hypothesis and suggests that, at least during the early onset of bleaching, photobionts reduce the host's ESR under elevated temperatures in A. poculata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcriptome data are frequently used to investigate coral bleaching; however, the factors controlling gene expression in natural populations of these species are poorly understood. We studied two corals, Montipora capitata and Pocillopora acuta, that inhabit the sheltered Kāne'ohe Bay, Hawai'i. M. capitata colonies in the bay are outbreeding diploids, whereas P. acuta is a mixture of clonal diploids and triploids. Populations were sampled from six reefs and subjected to either control (no stress), thermal stress, pH stress, or combined pH and thermal stress treatments. RNA‐seq data were generated to test two competing hypotheses: (1) gene expression is largely independent of genotype, reflecting a shared treatment‐driven response (TDE) or, (2) genotype dominates gene expression, regardless of treatment (GDE). Our results strongly support the GDE model, even under severe stress. We suggest that post‐transcriptional processes (e.g., control of translation, protein turnover) modify the signal from the transcriptome, and may underlie the observed differences in coral bleaching sensitivity via the downstream proteome and metabolome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have predominantly spotlighted bacterial diversity within coral microbiomes, leaving coral-associated fungi in the shadows of scientific inquiry. This study endeavors to fill this knowledge gap by delving into the biodiversity, distribution and functional differences of fungi associated with soft corals Cladiella krempfi and Sarcophyton tortuosum, gorgonian coral Dichotella gemmacea and stony coral Favia speciosa from the South China Sea. Leveraging high-throughput sequencing of fungal internal transcribed spacer-1 (ITS1) region of the rRNA gene, a total of 431 fungal amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) were identified in this study, which indicated that a large number of fungal communities were harbored in the South China Sea corals. Noteworthy among our findings is that 10 fungal genera are reported for the first time in corals, with Candolleomyces, Exophiala, Fomitopsis, Inaequalispora, Kneiffiella, Paraphaeosphaeria, and Yamadazyma belonging to the Ascomycota, and Cystobasidium, Psathyrella, and Solicoccozyma to the Basidiomycota. Moreover, significant differences (p < 0.05) of fungal communities were observed among the various coral species. In particular, the gorgonian coral D. gemmacea emerged as a veritable haven for fungal diversity, boasting 307 unique ASVs. Contrastingly, soft corals S. tortuosum and C. krempfi exhibited modest fungal diversity, with 36 and 21 unique ASVs, respectively, while the stony coral F. speciosa hosted a comparatively sparse fungal community, with merely 10 unique ASVs in total. These findings not only provide basic data on fungal diversity and function in the South China Sea corals, but also underscore the imperative of nuanced conservation and management strategies for coral reef ecosystems worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal stress causes the overproduction and toxic accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which seems to be correlated with coral bleaching and, ultimately, death. The reduction of ROS concentration within the coral holobiont could minimize the effects of thermal stress and support efforts to reduce coral decline globally. In the current study, we explored the physiological responses of Pocillopora damicornis to ROS-scavenging bacteria inoculation as well as the microbiome restructuring that correlates with P. damicornis's resilience to thermal stress after probiotic inoculation. Inoculation of corals with ROS-scavenging bacteria enhanced coral health and reduced ROS concentration. Furthermore, the enhanced coral thermal resistance promoted by ROS-scavenging bacteria was also correlated with an overall coral microbiome restructuring. In addition, the complex network relationships between bacteria and Symbiodiniaceae in corals after ROS-scavenging bacteria inoculation contributed to corals' resilience to high temperatures. Besides, coral heat tolerance bacterial biomarkers, such as Myxococcota, were enriched in corals with added ROS-scavenging bacteria. Collectively, our findings validate the selected ROS-scavenging bacteria as coral probiotics that could help corals resist thermal stress on a short timescale. Additionally, our data contribute to our understanding of the potential interactions between different members of the coral holobiont and the use of probiotics as tools to aid coral restoration efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Coral reefs experience frequent and severe disturbances that can overwhelm their natural resilience. In such cases, ecological restoration is essential for coral reef recovery. Sexual reproduction has been reported to present the simplest and most cost-effective means for coral reef restoration. However, larval settlement and post-settlement survival represent bottlenecks for coral recruitment in sexual reproduction. While bacteria play a significant role in triggering coral metamorphosis and settlement in many coral species, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, we employed a transcriptome-level analysis to elucidate the intricate interactions between bacteria and coral larvae that are crucial for the settlement process. Results High Metabacillus indicus strain cB07 inoculation densities resulted in the successful induction of metamorphosis and settlement of coral Pocillopora damicoris larvae. Compared with controls, inoculated coral larvae exhibited a pronounced increase in the abundance of strain cB07 during metamorphosis and settlement, followed by a significant decrease in total lipid contents during the settled stage. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during metamorphosis were significantly enriched in amino acid, protein, fatty acid, and glucose related metabolic pathways. In settled coral larvae induced by strain cB07, there was a significant enrichment of DEGs with essential roles in the establishment of a symbiotic relationship between coral larvae and their symbiotic partners. The photosynthetic efficiency of strain cB07 induced primary polyp holobionts was improved compared to those of the negative controls. In addition, coral primary polyps induced by strain cB07 showed significant improvements in energy storage and survival. Conclusions Our findings revealed that strain cB07 can promote coral larval settlement and enhance post-settlement survival and fitness. Manipulating coral sexual reproduction with strain cB07 can overcome the current recruitment bottleneck. This innovative approach holds promise for future coral reef restoration efforts.

Abstract Corals in marginal reef habitats generally exhibit less bleaching and associated mortality compared to nearby corals in more pristine reef environments. It is unclear, however, if these differences are due to environmental differences, including turbidity, or genomic differences between the coral hosts in these different environments. One particularly interesting case is in the coral genus Porites, which contains numerous morphologically similar massive Porites species inhabiting a wide range of reef habitats, from turbid river deltas and stagnant back reefs to high-energy fore reefs. Here, we generate ddRAD data for 172 Porites corals from river delta and adjacent (

Abstract The symbiosis between corals and dinoflagellates of the family Symbiodiniaceae is sensitive to environmental stress. The oxidative bleaching hypothesis posits that extreme temperatures lead to accumulation of photobiont-derived reactive oxygen species ROS, which exacerbates the coral environmental stress response (ESR). To understand how photosymbiosis modulates coral ESRs, these responses must be explored in hosts in and out of symbiosis. We leveraged the facultatively symbiotic coral Astrangia poculata, which offers an opportunity to uncouple the ESR across its two symbiotic phenotypes (brown, white). Colonies of both symbiotic phenotypes were exposed to three temperature treatments for 15 days: (i) control (static 18 °C), (ii) heat challenge (increasing from 18 to 30 °C), and (iii) cold challenge (decreasing from 18 to 4 °C) after which host gene expression was profiled. Cold challenged corals elicited widespread differential expression, however, there were no differences between symbiotic phenotypes. In contrast, brown colonies exhibited greater gene expression plasticity under heat challenge, including enrichment of cell cycle pathways involved in controlling photobiont growth. While this plasticity was greater, the genes driving this plasticity were not associated with an amplified environmental stress response (ESR) and instead showed patterns of a dampened ESR under heat challenge. This provides nuance to the oxidative bleaching hypothesis and suggests that, at least during the early onset of bleaching, photobionts reduce the host’s ESR under elevated temperatures in A. poculata.

Abstract The application of beneficial microorganisms for corals (BMC) decreases the bleaching susceptibility and mortality rate of corals. BMC selection is typically performed via molecular and biochemical assays, followed by genomic screening for BMC traits. Herein, we present a comprehensive in silico framework to explore a set of six putative BMC strains. We extracted high-quality DNA from coral samples collected from the Red Sea and performed PacBio sequencing. We identified BMC traits and mechanisms associated with each strain as well as proposed new traits and mechanisms, such as chemotaxis and the presence of phages and bioactive secondary metabolites. The presence of prophages in two of the six studied BMC strains suggests their possible distribution within beneficial bacteria. We also detected various secondary metabolites, such as terpenes, ectoines, lanthipeptides, and lasso peptides. These metabolites possess antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities and play key roles in coral health by reducing the effects of heat stress, high salinity, reactive oxygen species, and radiation. Corals are currently facing unprecedented challenges, and our revised framework can help select more efficient BMC for use in studies on coral microbiome rehabilitation, coral resilience, and coral restoration.

The application of beneficial microorganisms for corals (BMC) decreases the bleaching susceptibility and mortality rate of corals. BMC selection is typically performed via molecular and biochemical assays, followed by genomic screening for BMC traits. Herein, we present a comprehensive in silico framework to explore a set of six putative BMC strains. We extracted high-quality DNA from coral samples collected from the Red Sea and performed PacBio sequencing. We identified BMC traits and mechanisms associated with each strain as well as proposed new traits and mechanisms, such as chemotaxis and the presence of phages and bioactive secondary metabolites. The presence of prophages in two of the six studied BMC strains suggests their possible distribution within beneficial bacteria. We also detected various secondary metabolites, such as terpenes, ectoines, lanthipeptides, and lasso peptides. These metabolites possess antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities and play key roles in coral health by reducing the effects of heat stress, high salinity, reactive oxygen species, and radiation. Corals are currently facing unprecedented challenges, and our revised framework can help select more efficient BMC for use in studies on coral microbiome rehabilitation, coral resilience, and coral restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mediterranean red coral has long been believed to be imbued with sacred, spiritual and healing power and was given to children across Europe in the form of an amulet, teether or medicine. In early modern England, portraits of children from affluent families and medical receipts provide snapshots of coral usage, a moment in time, which do not adequately reveal the spiritual, therapeutic and affective significance of this material within the context of unique family circumstances and a multitude of perceived threats to children’s health. Focusing on five case studies, this article delves into the lived experience of families who deemed coral objects an essential childhood accessory in the period from 1590 to 1775. Julian Herrick, a goldsmith’s widow, Sir John Oglander, a knight caught up in the civil war, Dr Garencières, a doctor confronting dangerous infection, Lady Blackett, a devoted grandmama, and Ann Lord, a woman facing destitution, all placed value on coral for their young children. This study draws on a diverse range of material and documentary evidence from the seventeenth and eighteenth century to unpack the significance of red coral for parents within a changing religious, political and medical landscape. Building on scholarship within material culture studies and the history of emotions, this study also situates children’s coral objects within emotional relationships and seeks to uncover the implicit meanings such objects held which could not be written or articulated due to illiteracy, controversy or persecution. By combining a micro-historical approach with a broader thematic analysis, the case studies presented indicate that coral occupies an important place in the history of the early modern family as the embodiment of the anxieties of parents and grandparents, a means to soothe and protect young children and a material expression of hope, love and faith, particularly during periods of crisis and separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world now needs new antimicrobial drugs because many infections are resistant to existing treatments. Many microbial infections pose a significant global health challenge and a critical need for new, effective treatment. Soft corals are being explored for their potential as sources of new antimicrobial drugs. The present study aimed to determine the antimicrobial, antifungal, and antimycobacterial properties of the crude extract of coral Junceella delicata, collected from Madh island, Mumbai. The crude extract was prepared by adding an equal volume of methanol: dichloromethane (1:1) for 24 hours in the water bath at 45 °C. The sample was filtered through Whatman filter paper No. 1 and was subjected to concentrate in a rotary vacuum evaporator at 45° C. Further, antimycobacterial drugs viz. Isoniazid, Ethambutol, Pyrazinamide, Rifampicin, and Streptomycin were used to compare the activity with crude extract of the coral. It was observed that Coral J. delicata extract showed a zone of inhibition against all the bacterial strains viz., Klebsiella pneumonia (15 mm), Escherichia coli (15 mm), Salmonella typhi (14 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (09 mm), Sarcina lutea (15 mm), Streptococcus pyogenes (12 mm), Corynebacterium diphtheria (27 mm), Staphylococcus aureus (28 mm), whereas antifungal activity was observed in Penicillium sp.(10 mm), Candida albicans (14 mm) and no activity was observed in Aspergillus sp. The Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) strain showed sensitivity at (25µg/ml of coral extract, nearly close to the standard antituberculosis drug pyrazinamide (3.2µg/ml). The above results indicated that the crude extract of J. delicata had antibacterial activity nearly against the standard antituberculosis drug Pyrazinamide. The study suggests the crude extract of coral J. delicata can be used as an antimicrobial agent to cure different diseases, including tuberculosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intracellular coral–dinoflagellate symbiosis is the engine that underpins the success of coral reefs, one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. However, the breakdown of the symbiosis and the loss of the microalgal symbiont (i.e. coral bleaching) due to environmental changes are resulting in the rapid degradation of coral reefs globally. There is an urgent need to understand the cellular physiology of coral bleaching at the mechanistic level to help develop solutions to mitigate the coral reef crisis. Here, at an unprecedented scope, we present novel models that integrate putative mechanisms of coral bleaching within a common framework according to the triggers (initiators of bleaching, e.g. heat, cold, light stress, hypoxia, hyposalinity), cascades (cellular pathways, e.g. photoinhibition, unfolded protein response, nitric oxide), and endpoints (mechanisms of symbiont loss, e.g. apoptosis, necrosis, exocytosis/vomocytosis). The models are supported by direct evidence from cnidarian systems, and indirectly through comparative evolutionary analyses from non‐cnidarian systems. With this approach, new putative mechanisms have been established within and between cascades initiated by different bleaching triggers. In particular, the models provide new insights into the poorly understood connections between bleaching cascades and endpoints and highlight the role of a new mechanism of symbiont loss, i.e. 'symbiolysosomal digestion', which is different from symbiophagy. This review also increases the approachability of bleaching physiology for specialists and non‐specialists by mapping the vast landscape of bleaching mechanisms in an atlas of comprehensible and detailed mechanistic models. We then discuss major knowledge gaps and how future research may improve the understanding of the connections between the diverse cascade of cellular pathways and the mechanisms of symbiont loss (endpoints). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The symbiotic relationship between corals and their associated microorganisms is crucial for the health of coral reef eco-environmental systems. Recently, there has been a growing interest in unraveling how the manipulation of symbiont nutrient cycling affects the stress tolerance in the holobiont of coral reefs. However, most studies have primarily focused on coral–Symbiodiniaceae–bacterial interactions as a whole, neglecting the interactions between Symbiodiniaceae and bacteria, which remain largely unexplored. In this study, we proposed a hypothesis that there exists an inner symbiotic loop of Symbiodiniaceae and bacteria within the coral symbiotic loop. We conducted experiments to demonstrate how metabolic exchanges between Symbiodiniaceae and bacteria facilitate the nutritional supply necessary for cellular growth. It was seen that the beneficial bacterium, Ruegeria sp., supplied a nitrogen source to the Symbiodiniaceae strain Durusdinium sp., allowing this dinoflagellate to thrive in a nitrogen-free medium. The Ruegeria sp.–Durusdinium sp. interaction was confirmed through 15N-stable isotope probing–single cell Raman spectroscopy, in which 15N infiltrated into the bacterial cells for intracellular metabolism, and eventually the labeled nitrogen source was traced within the macromolecules of Symbiodiniaceae cells. The investigation into Symbiodiniaceae loop interactions validates our hypothesis and contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the intricate coral holobiont. These findings have the potential to enhance the health of coral reefs in the face of global climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significant threats to the long-term persistence of coral reefs have accelerated the adoption of coral propagation and out-planting approaches. However, how materials commonly used for propagation structures could potentially affect coral-associated bacterial communities remains untested. Here, we examined the impact of metal propagation structures on coral-associated bacterial communities. Fragments of the coral species Acropora millepora were grown on aluminium, sand/epoxy-coated steel (Reef Stars), and uncoated steel (rebar) structures. After 6 months, the functional and taxonomic profiles of coral-associated bacterial communities of propagated corals and reef colonies were characterised using amplicon (16S rRNA gene) and shotgun metagenomic sequencing. No differences in the phylogenetic structure or functional profile of coral-associated bacterial communities were observed between propagated corals and reef colonies. However, specific genes and pathways (e.g., lipid, nucleotide, and carbohydrate metabolism) were overrepresented in corals grown on different materials, and different taxa were indicative of the materials. These findings indicate that coral propagation on different materials may lead to differences in the individual bacterial taxa and functional potential of coralassociated bacterial communities, but how these contribute to changed holobiont fitness presents a key question to be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coral growth depends on the partnership between the animal hosts and their intracellular, photosynthetic dinoflagellate symbionts. In this study, we used the sea anemone Aiptasia, a laboratory model for coral biology, to investigate the poorly understood mechanisms that mediate symbiosis establishment and maintenance. We found that initial colonization of both adult polyps and larvae by a compatible algal strain was more effective when the algae were able to photosynthesize and that the long-term maintenance of the symbiosis also depended on photosynthesis. In the dark, algal cells were taken up into host gastrodermal cells and not rapidly expelled, but they seemed unable to reproduce and thus were gradually lost. When we used confocal microscopy to examine the interaction of larvae with two algal strains that cannot establish stable symbioses with Aiptasia, it appeared that both pre- and post-phagocytosis mechanisms were involved. With one strain, algae entered the gastric cavity but appeared to be completely excluded from the gastrodermal cells. With the other strain, small numbers of algae entered the gastrodermal cells but appeared unable to proliferate there and were slowly lost upon further incubation. We also asked if the exclusion of either incompatible strain could result simply from their cells' being too large for the host cells to accommodate. However, the size distributions of the compatible and incompatible strains overlapped extensively. Moreover, examination of macerates confirmed earlier reports that individual gastrodermal cells could expand to accommodate multiple algal cells. This article is part of the theme issue 'Sculpting the microbiome: how host factors determine and respond to microbial colonization'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoautotrophic marine ecosystems can lock up organic carbon in their biomass and the associated organic sediments they trap over millennia and are thus regarded as blue carbon ecosystems. Because of the ability of marine ecosystems to lock up organic carbon for millennia, blue carbon is receiving much attention within the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as a nature‐based solution (NBS) to climate change, but classically still focuses on seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, and tidal marshes. However, other coastal ecosystems could also be important for blue carbon storage, but remain largely neglected in both carbon cycling budgets and NBS strategic planning. Using a meta‐analysis of 253 research publications, we identify other coastal ecosystems—including mud flats, fjords, coralline algal (rhodolith) beds, and some components or coral reef systems—with a strong capacity to act as blue carbon sinks in certain situations. Features that promote blue carbon burial within these 'non‐classical' blue carbon ecosystems included: (1) balancing of carbon release by calcification via carbon uptake at the individual and ecosystem levels; (2) high rates of allochthonous organic carbon supply because of high particle trapping capacity; (3) high rates of carbon preservation and low remineralization rates; and (4) location in depositional environments. Some of these features are context‐dependent, meaning that these ecosystems were blue carbon sinks in some locations, but not others. Therefore, we provide a universal framework that can evaluate the likelihood of a given ecosystem to behave as a blue carbon sink for a given context. Overall, this paper seeks to encourage consideration of non‐classical blue carbon ecosystems within NBS strategies, allowing more complete blue carbon accounting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioluminescence is a widespread phenomenon that has evolved multiple times across the tree of life, converging among diverse fauna and habitat types. The ubiquity of bioluminescence, particularly in marine environments where it is commonly used for communication and defense, highlights the adaptive value of this trait, though the evolutionary origins and timing of emergence remain elusive for a majority of luminous organisms. Anthozoan cnidarians are a diverse group of animals with numerous bioluminescent species found throughout the world's oceans, from shallow waters to the light-limited deep sea where bioluminescence is particularly prominent. This study documents the presence of bioluminescent Anthozoa across depth and explores the diversity and evolutionary origins of bioluminescence among Octocorallia—a major anthozoan group of marine luminous organisms. Using a phylogenomic approach and ancestral state reconstruction, we provide evidence for a single origin of bioluminescence in Octocorallia and infer the age of occurrence to around the Cambrian era, approximately 540 Ma—setting a new record for the earliest timing of emergence of bioluminescence in the marine environment. Our results further suggest this trait was largely maintained in descendants of a deep-water ancestor and bioluminescent capabilities may have facilitated anthozoan diversification in the deep sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In July 2016, East Bank of Flower Garden Banks (FGB) National Marine Sanctuary experienced a localized mortality event (LME) of multiple invertebrate species that ultimately led to reductions in coral cover. Abiotic data taken directly after the event suggested that acute deoxygenation contributed to the mortality. Despite the large impact of this event on the coral community, there was no direct evidence that this LME was driven by acute deoxygenation, and thus we explored whether gene expression responses of corals to the LME would indicate what abiotic factors may have contributed to the LME. Gene expression of affected and unaffected corals sampled during the mortality event revealed evidence of the physiological consequences of the LME on coral hosts and their algal symbionts from two congeneric species (Orbicella franksi and Orbicella faveolata). Affected colonies of both species differentially regulated genes involved in mitochondrial regulation and oxidative stress. To further test the hypothesis that deoxygenation led to the LME, we measured coral host and algal symbiont gene expression in response to ex situ experimental deoxygenation (control = 6.9 ± 0.08 mg L−1, anoxic = 0.083 ± 0.017 mg L−1) in healthy O. faveolata colonies from the FGB. However, this deoxygenation experiment revealed divergent gene expression patterns compared to the corals sampled during the LME and was more similar to a generalized coral environmental stress response. It is therefore likely that while the LME was connected to low oxygen, it was a series of interconnected stressors that elicited the unique gene expression responses observed here. These in situ and ex situ data highlight how field responses to stressors are unique from those in controlled laboratory conditions, and that the complexities of deoxygenation events in the field likely arise from interactions between multiple environmental factors simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing ocean temperatures are causing dysbiosis between coral hosts and their symbionts. Previous work suggests that coral host gene expression responds more strongly to environmental stress compared to their intracellular symbionts; however, the causes and consequences of this phenomenon remain untested. We hypothesized that symbionts are less responsive because hosts modulate symbiont environments to buffer stress. To test this hypothesis, we leveraged the facultative symbiosis between the scleractinian coral Oculina arbuscula and its symbiont Breviolum psygmophilum to characterize gene expression responses of both symbiotic partners in and ex hospite under thermal challenges. To characterize host and in hospite symbiont responses, symbiotic and aposymbiotic O. arbuscula were exposed to three treatments: (1) control (18°C), (2) heat (32°C), and (3) cold (6°C). This experiment was replicated with B. psygmophilum cultured from O. arbuscula to characterize ex hospite symbiont responses. Both thermal challenges elicited classic environmental stress responses (ESRs) in O. arbuscula regardless of symbiotic state, with hosts responding more strongly to cold challenge. Hosts also exhibited stronger responses than in hospite symbionts. In and ex hospite B. psygmophilum both down‐regulated gene ontology pathways associated with photosynthesis under thermal challenge; however, ex hospite symbionts exhibited greater gene expression plasticity and differential expression of genes associated with ESRs. Taken together, these findings suggest that O. arbuscula hosts may buffer environments of B. psygmophilum symbionts; however, we outline the future work needed to confirm this hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical cyclones (TCs) lead to huge economic losses and casualties in coastal regions, but multi‐decadal variation of TC remains poorly understood due to the limited length of observational records and low‐resolution reconstructions. Porites corals provide continuous and monthly resolved records that allow for the determination of weather‐timescale (weekly to monthly) extreme events, including TC, to overcome the above limitations. Here we synthesize five coral Δδ18O records from the South China Sea (SCS) and develop a coral TC frequency index, in good agreement with post‐1980 instrumental records and sediment‐based TC reconstructions over the past century. Our results indicate that TC frequency in the SCS exhibits pronounced decadal variations, with active TCs corresponding to the negative phase of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation. Our findings here provide novel evidence for past TC changes in the SCS and a constraint for predicting future TC changes. Plain Language Summary: The impact of tropical cyclones (TCs) on coastal regions results in significant economic losses and casualties. Due to the relatively short observations or low‐resolution records, assessing long‐term changes of TCs has suffered from large uncertainties. Porites corals are sensitive to environmental changes and can provide century‐long, monthly resolved records, which could serve as a potential archive for reconstructing past TCs. Here we present five coral Δδ18O records from the South China Sea (SCS) and develop two TC frequency indexes. Both the TCs generated in the SCS and those entering the SCS from the Western North Pacific are reflected in our coral‐based TCs reconstruction. In addition, our reconstruction suggests that the TCs in the SCS were increased in 1878–1888, 1894–1904, 1934–1952, 1971–1978, and 1995–2004, which corresponded to the negative phase of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation over the past century. Our findings provide new evidence for historical changes in TCs in the SCS and a valuable constraint for predicting future TC variations. Key Points: The low residual oxygen isotope values of coral strongly respond to tropical cyclones in the South China SeaExcluding temperature, we reconstruct tropical cyclone activities in the South China Sea over the past century using coral oxygen isotopesPacific Decadal Oscillation modulates tropical cyclones in the South China Sea over the past century [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study provides a detailed investigation into several representatives of La Tène jewellery. Primarily, it deals with non-metallic decorative inlays from the Late La Tène period, particularly with their application on a metal base. Unique artefacts have been selected for the study, all coming from the Czech Republic and Slovakia. A prime representative of the finds is a torc coming from a La Tène burial site in Prague (Czech Republic, Central Europe). In this geographical context, such finds are rather exceptional. The torc examined is remarkable both in terms of its origin and the production technology utilised, namely the application of decorative inlays made of red opaque glass. Available literature classifies this decorative element as an enamel technique. The highly specific type of red soda high-lead glass applied there was examined using LA-ICP-MS. Based on the trace elements detected, it can be established that the glass is most likely related to contemporary Egyptian production. Other items of the artefact set consist of two Münsingen brooches from Moravia and an exceptional brooch from Slovakia. The latter find was found to be decorated with coral (as confirmed by Raman spectroscopy). Besides identifying the materials of the decorations, we were also able to characterize the binder between individual decorative inlays and their metal base. The analysis of the binder has revealed the presence of birch tar (determined by FTIR and GC/MS). The results obtained expand the knowledge about the production technologies applied to the jewellery from the La Tène period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symbiodiniaceae species is a dinoflagellate that plays a crucial role in maintaining the symbiotic mutualism of reef-building corals in the ocean. Reef-building corals, as hosts, provide the nutrition and habitat to endosymbiotic Symbiodiniaceae species and Symbiodiniaceae species transfer the fixed carbon to the corals for growth. Environmental stress is one of the factors impacting the physiology and metabolism of the corals-dinoflagellate association. The environmental stress triggers the metabolic changes in Symbiodiniaceae species resulting in an increase in the production of survival organelles related to storage components such as lipid droplets (LD). LDs are found as unique organelles, mainly composed of triacylglycerols surrounded by phospholipids embedded with some proteins. To date, it has been reported that investigation of lipid droplets significantly present in animals and plants led to the understanding that lipid droplets play a key role in lipid storage and transport. The major challenge of investigating endosymbiotic Symbiodiniaceae species lies in overcoming the strategies in isolating lesser lipid droplets present in its intercellular cells. Here, we review the most recent highlights of LD research in endosymbiotic Symbiodiniaceae species particularly focusing on LD biogenesis, mechanism, and major lipid droplet proteins. Moreover, to comprehend potential novel ways of energy storage in the symbiotic interaction between endosymbiotic Symbiodiniaceae species and its host, we also emphasize recent emerging environmental factors such as temperature, ocean acidification, and nutrient impacting the accumulation of lipid droplets in endosymbiotic Symbiodiniaceae species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Coral‐based stable oxygen isotopes (δ18O) have been used as a proxy for sea surface temperature (SST) since the 1970s, and δ18O–SST calibration studies have been fundamental to assure robust and faithful SST reconstructions. Paleoclimatic studies based on corals from the tropical western South Atlantic (TWSA) are scarce, and the available coral species need to be calibrated to improve climate and environmental reconstructions. Siderastrea stellata, a slow‐growing coral, is a potential species to be explored as a coral archive in the TWSA. We provide the first multi‐site δ18O–SST calibration for the coral S. stellata from three locations at the TWSA: Todos os Santos Bay, Tamandaré and the Rocas Atoll. Pseudo‐coral δ18O calculations derived from gridded SSS and SST show that the contributions of SSS and SST to coral δ18O are expected to be different at each site. Weighted least squares linear regressions performed between the δ18O and SST generated the following calibrations equations: δ18O = −0.18 (±0.02) × SST (°C) + 1.90 (±0.47) for Todos os Santos Bay; δ18O = −0.18 (±0.02) × SST (°C) + 1.54 (±0.67) for Tamandaré; and δ18O = −0.16 (±0.03) × SST (°C) + 1.24 (±0.71) for the Rocas Atoll. The δ18O‐SST sensitivity of S. stellata from the TWSA is similar to that of other slow‐growing species of the genus and consistent with the expected δ18O‐SST sensitivity of other species reported in the literature. These calibrations will allow future SST reconstructions based on δ18O records from sub‐fossil and fossil S. stellata, an abundant species in the TWSA.

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most fatal malignant tumors, with a poor prognosis. Nowadays, computational methods for designing and predicting anticancer agents have gained increased attention. In this work, a QSAR study is conducted to further investigate the activity of 5797 agents against pancreatic cancer cell lines. QSAR models are a system of classification approaches that are used to construct and validate the predictive potential of created models. This approach demonstrates the prediction in the active (1) and inactive (−1) format. Here, the classification QSAR technique is employed to construct and evaluate models. The classification QSAR model has been constructed by the Monte Carlo method based on the representation of the molecular structure by SMILES (simplified molecular input line entry systems) using the CORAL software. Four random splits of data by making four sets such as active training, passive training, calibration, and validation sets are assessed. The numerical values of sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for the validation set of splits 1 to 4 are in the range of 0.7726–0.7901, 0.9007–0.9220, and 0.8548–0.8730 respectively. The Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) of these models for external validation sets is found to be in the range of 0.6832 to 0.7215.

Abstract Transcriptome data are frequently used to investigate coral bleaching; however, the factors controlling gene expression in natural populations of these species are poorly understood. We studied two corals, Montipora capitata and Pocillopora acuta, that inhabit the sheltered Kāne'ohe Bay, Hawai'i. M. capitata colonies in the bay are outbreeding diploids, whereas P. acuta is a mixture of clonal diploids and triploids. Populations were sampled from six reefs and subjected to either control (no stress), thermal stress, pH stress, or combined pH and thermal stress treatments. RNA‐seq data were generated to test two competing hypotheses: (1) gene expression is largely independent of genotype, reflecting a shared treatment‐driven response (TDE) or, (2) genotype dominates gene expression, regardless of treatment (GDE). Our results strongly support the GDE model, even under severe stress. We suggest that post‐transcriptional processes (e.g., control of translation, protein turnover) modify the signal from the transcriptome, and may underlie the observed differences in coral bleaching sensitivity via the downstream proteome and metabolome.

Abstract Phenotypic plasticity can buffer organisms against short‐term environmental fluctuations. For example, previous exposure to increased temperatures can increase thermal tolerance in many species. Prior studies have found that acclimation to higher temperature can influence the magnitude of transcriptional response to subsequent acute thermal stress (hereafter, “transcriptional response modulation”). However, mechanisms mediating this gene expression response and, ultimately, phenotypic plasticity remain largely unknown. Epigenetic modifications are good candidates for modulating transcriptional response, as they broadly correlate with gene expression. Here, we investigate changes in DNA methylation as a possible mechanism controlling shifts in gene expression plasticity and thermal acclimation in the reef‐building coral Acropora nana. We find that gene expression response to acute stress is altered in corals acclimated to different temperatures, with many genes exhibiting a dampened response to heat stress in corals pre‐conditioned to higher temperatures. At the same time, we observe shifts in methylation during both acclimation (11 days) and acute heat stress (24 h). We observed that the acute heat stress results in shifts in gene‐level methylation and elicits an acute transcriptional response in distinct gene sets. Further, acclimation‐induced shifts in gene expression plasticity and differential methylation also largely occur in separate sets of genes. Counter to our initial hypothesis no overall correlation between the magnitude of differential methylation and the change in gene expression plasticity. We do find a small but statistically significant overlap in genes exhibiting both dampened expression response and shifts in methylation (14 genes), which could be candidates for further inquiry. Overall, our results suggest transcriptional response modulation occurs independently from methylation changes induced by thermal acclimation.

Several factors contribute to the importance of designing a coral monitoring system. Firstly, coral reefs are ecologically crucial ecosystems, providing habitat for numerous marine species and supporting biodiversity. Therefore, monitoring coral reefs is essential for understanding population dynamics and ecosystem health. Secondly, coral reefs are vulnerable to climate change, pollution, overfishing, and human activities. With a monitoring system, we can identify factors damaging coral reefs and take necessary prevention or restoration actions. Thirdly, coral reef monitoring aids in informing policies and sustainable resource management. By comprehensively understanding coral reef conditions, we can develop more effective management strategies to protect and preserve these ecosystems for future generations. This research aims to design a coral monitoring system to identify factors contributing to coral reef degradation. The method employed is Rapid Application Development (RAD), with stages including requirement planning, user design, construction, and cutover. The findings of this study indicate that the application can meet user needs. The findings of this research emphasize the urgent need for the development and implementation of coral monitoring applications as a strategic step toward reducing environmental degradation for ecological sustainability. The research underscores the critical role of monitoring tools in assessing and mitigating the impacts of human activities and environmental stressors on coral reef ecosystems through comprehensive data analysis and evaluation. This highlights the importance of proactive measures to address the increasing threats facing coral reefs and emphasizes the significance of technological innovations in facilitating practical conservation efforts.

Objective Research on reefs is highly important for determining sedimentary environments and for oil and gas exploration, but relatively few studies have been conducted on Carboniferous reefs in the Southwest Tarim Basin. Methods Early Carboniferous reefs of the Heshirafu Formation in the Artashi section in the Southwest Tarim Basin formed in the Middle-Late Visean section of the Early Carboniferous. Reef-building organisms and accessory organisms were not quite diversified; the former mainly consisted of colonial corals of different kinds and solitary corals of a small number, and the latter were mostly echinoderms. Results Their growth was suspended due to less supply of terrigenous materials largely related to the frequent sea level changes in the Early Carboniferous in the piedmont structures of the Southwest Tarim Basin. These reefs are among the products of the recovery of metazoan skeleton reefs across the globe after the Late Devonian mass extinction; their occurrence was accompanied by mid- to late-stage Visean climate warming and global sea level rise. These reefs are common in the Early Carboniferous Visean reefs worldwide. In addition, according to the overall sedimentary facies of the Heshirafu Formation in the Artashi section and the adjacent Hantiereke Formation in the Kushanhe section, it is speculated that a transgression occurred from southwest to northeast in the Visean period of the Early Carboniferous in the Southwest Tarim Basin when the global sea level was rising and a passive continental margin was simultaneously forming and beginning to sink. As a result, a narrow platform margin facies belt gradually took shape in the piedmont structure of the Southwest Tarim Basin. This belt was conducive to the development of biological reefs. Then, when the Heshirafu Formation formed, a depositional system of "shore facies-lagoon facies-platform margin facies-slope facies-continental shelf facies" developed in a seaward direction. Conclusion The classification of sedimentary systems can provide a reference for Carboniferous sedimentary environments and oil and gas exploration in the Southwest Tarim Basin.

Artificial reefs have been suggested as alternative dive sites to mitigate human pressure on natural reefs. Despite the conceptual appeal of artificial reefs, there is a paucity of empirical evidence regarding their effectiveness in achieving this objective. Here, we report that a small artificial reef deployed adjacent to a local coral marine protected area caused a shift in the routes taken by introductory dives and nearly eliminated their visitations to the natural fringing reef within the MPA. This behavioral shift among divers persisted for more than a decade following the AR deployment. These findings underscore the efficacy of well-designed and appropriately located artificial reefs as valuable instruments in the conservation of coral reefs.

Abstract Background Supra aortic obstruction in children is uncommon and is seen in certain unique conditions. While intraluminal obstruction due to heavy calcification is seen in older populations, it is not described in pediatric populations. The coral reef aorta is a rare and distinct calcifying disease causing luminal obstruction of the suprarenal aorta in adults. The definition of this diagnosis relies entirely on the unique aspects and consistency of the lesions, which are rock-hard, irregular, gritty plaques with a white luminal surface resembling a coral reef. However, no such case has been described in children. Case presentation We present an adolescent boy who presented with a heavily calcified ascending aortic lesion associated with aortopathy and hypertension, 12 years after an aortic coarctation repair. The investigations included echocardiography, magnetic resonance and computer-tomographic imaging. A 3-D model was printed in order to visualize and plan surgical steps in advance for safe placement of clamps and defining the extent of resection. In addition, it provided an idea about tissue quality, thickness, spatial relationship, and orientation in relation to surrounding structures. Successful resection and replacement of the diseased segment of the aorta were achieved on cardiopulmonary bypass support. Post-operative recovery was uneventful, and at 6-month follow-up, the patient is doing well. In this report, various aspects of such lesions have been discussed, including clinical presentations, complications, planning and conduct of a safe cardiopulmonary bypass, and precautions during surgery for a successful outcome. Conclusion Complicated obstructive aortic lesions in children require careful assessment, appropriate advanced imaging, and the use of 3-D printing technology in order to plan and perform safe and effective surgical management. The etiology of severe calcified aorta in children may be related to metabolic factors, previous surgery, use of a homograft, or an inflammatory process. However, it has yet to be proven.

This research is in Penimbangan Beach, Baktiseraga Village, Singaraja District, Bali. Data was collected in August and September 2023 at two sites, one repetition. Used the underwater photo transect (UPT) method for coral data and the underwater visual census (UVC) method for fish. It is a unique coastal area with various ecosystem potential and has developed into a destination for marine activity. This beach has a natural coral reef ecosystem with great potential to develop into a marine tourism destination, especially for snorkeling. The determination as a snorkeling tourist area uses a tourism suitability index (TSI) matrix analysis by considering ecological parameters and water quality. The parameters measured in field observations are coral community cover, lifeform type, reef fish type, visibility, depth, current speed, and width of coral flatbeds. The coral community cover value at both sites was less than 25%, 19 types of lifeforms were found, and the flat area was around 80m2. The types of coral fish found were 52 species (site 1) and 48 species (site 2), with a total of 651 individuals divided into 17 families. High water visibility is 100%, and current speed is 0 cm/sec. The depth of the reef is between 3 m and 5 m. The tourism suitability index (TSI) for the snorkeling category is included in the unsuitable category; the scores for each site are 1.725 (site 1) and 1.495 (site 2).