Lack of recruitment of non-branching corals in Discovery Bay is linked to severe storms

摘要: We developed a rational polynomial function model for coral colony growth which proved better fit than exponential logistic, Gompertz, and von Bertalanffy models. tested the models with published weight data, new band data Montastraea annularis samples. There was good correlation (r = 0.92, P < 0.01) between rates of degree polynomial, this related to morphology, where n 1 non-branching corals, 2 plate 3 branching species. used verify when we measured surface areas calculated recruitment dates 438 corals in sites around Discovery Bay, Jamaica. Recruitment significantly lower 1980, 1951 1944 other years since 1940. This low coincided severest storms significant negative −0.72, estimates storm severity. The resulted (P 0.002) estimates. show here that severe damage not only destroys it also results limiting recruitment. More stony species (64) have been recorded on Jamaica’s reefs elsewhere Caribbean (Wells Lang, 1973), most studied are those at Bay. In last 20–25 yrs, there major changes populations these reefs, general decline biodiversity (Gayle Woodley, 1998). Recent studies suggest high juvenile mortality is key factor restructuring communities (Smith, 1992, 1997; Miller et al., 2000). therefore undertook study estimate Bay reefs. A knowledge rate behaviour necessary establish dates, numerous can be (e.g., Dodge Va isnys, 1975; Hubbard Scaturo, 1985). order increase accuracy such estimates, gave very accurate so allowed prediction level accuracy. Simple functions number ecological processes, including neotropical trees (Condit 1993) fish (Basu, 1999), an increased parameters numerator denominator excellent fitting. paper describes use verification our model, presents how influenced over 60 yrs.