Reproduction by Fragmentation in Corals

Abstract

Production of new colonies by fragmentation of established colonies is shown to be an extremely important mode of reproduction and local distribution anlong major reef-bu~lding corals. This type of reproduction avoids the high mortality rates of larvae and juveniles and spreads the risk of mortality for the genotype Fragmentation by corals wlth high growth rates results In their domination of certain reef zones, rapid growth of reefs on which these corals are abundant, and rapid recovery from disturbances. I conclude that a number of the most successful corals are adapted to fragment, 1.e have incorporated fragmentation into their life histories