Coral communities are regionally enriched along an oceanic biodiversity gradient
Karlson RH, Cornell HV, Hughes TP. 2004. Coral communities are regionally enriched along an oceanic biodiversity gradient. Nature. :1-3
Letters to "Nature". A study of unprecedented geographical scope, showing significant regional and local variation in the species richness of coral assemblages across an oceanic biodiversity gradient. The gradient that was sampled extends 10,000 km eastwards from the world's richest coral biodiversity hotspot in the central Indo-Pacific. Local (includes American Samoa) richness and the size of regional species pools decline significantly across 15 islands spanning the gradient. In addition, richness declines across three adjacent habitats (reef slopes, crests and flats). In each habitat, a highly consistent linear relationship between local and regional species richness indicates strong regional enrichment. Thus, even on the most diverse coral reefs in the world, local coral assemblages are profoundly affected by regional-scale processes. Understanding these historical and biogeographical influences is essential for the effective management and preservation of these endangered communities.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Karlson, Ronald; Cornell, Howard; Hughes, Terence
- Units
- NPSA , PACN
- Keywords
- American Samoa, Animal Studies, benetic habitat, Biodiversity, Coastal/Marine Systems, Coral Reefs, enrichment