The Effect of Current on Growth Form in an Octocoral
Rees JT. 1972. The Effect of Current on Growth Form in an Octocoral. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology. 10:115-123
Observations on the growth of the octocoral Telesto riisei (Duchassaing & Michelotti) in the presence of directional current flow have revealed a growth pattern involving lateral growth of the axial polyps of the colony. The resulting flabellate growth form can be explained on the basis of increased mechanical stability in the environment. The hydrodynamic forces associated with the directional flow may cause the axial polyps to grow laterally to attain a 'balanced' state.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Rees, John
- Units
- SFCN
- Keywords
- Axial Polyps, Flabellate, Flow, Lateral Growth, Telesto riisei