High CO2 enhances the competitive strength of seaweeds over corals.

摘要: Space competition between corals and seaweeds is an important ecological process underlying coral-reef dynamics. Processes promoting seaweed growth survival, such as herbivore overfishing eutrophication, can lead to local reef degradation. Here, we present the case that increasing concentrations of atmospheric CO2 may be additional driving a shift from on reefs. Coral (Acropora intermedia) mortality in contact with common (Lobophora papenfussii) increased two- threefold background (400 ppm) highest level projected for late 21st century (1140 ppm). The strong interaction coral was most likely attributable chemical competitive mechanism, control algal mimics showed no mortality. Our results suggest (Acropora) reefs become increasingly susceptible proliferation under ocean acidification, processes regulating abundance (e.g. herbivory) will play role maintaining abundance.