Effects of sand deposition on scleractinian and alcyonacean corals

摘要: The ability of corals to withstand experimental sand deposition was investigated for two periods (17 h and 6 wk) in eight scleractinia (Favia favus, Favites pentagona, Platygyra daedalea, Gyrosmilia interrupta, Galaxea fascicularis, Cyphastrea chalcidicum, abdita, Goniopora dijboutensis) five alcyonacea (Lobophytum depressum, L. venustum, Sinularia dura, S. leptoclados, Sarcophyton glaucum) collected 1992 from Natal, South Africa. Scleractinia were active sediment shedders, passive, relying on water motion gravity. Short-term clearing efficiency primarily dependent corallum shape. Sand application led hydrostatic inflation polyps the entire colony as well increased tentacular action scleractinian interrupta. Under continuous application, remained while other activities, such motion, ceased completely. In alcyonacea, tissue necroses appeared after first week application. Death colonies partial bleaching continually sandcovered areas observed only. Different grain sizes had no influence reaction or efficiencies.