The influence of habitat characteristics and conspecifics on attraction and survival of coral reef fish juveniles

摘要: In marine species with a pelagic larval stage, search behavior and selection of suitable reef habitat can maximize the settlement success recently settled juveniles their subsequent performance (growth survival juveniles). Our objective was to test this hypothesis for single target coral fish (Chromis viridis) at Moorea Island. C. viridis settle on living colonies Porites rus already populated conspecifics. present study (conducted in experimental cages), we found that: 1) mortality rate lower (living P. rus) than other habitats having physical structure different from those colonies; 2) preferentially colonized heads conspecifics rather uninhabited they also heterospecifics; 3) did not vary presence or absence heterospecifics colonies. Overall, allows us highlight that site by containing does benefit short term rates, suggesting least, has little importance.