Observation of algal colonization on Acropora aspera killed by Acanthaster planci

Abstract

Algae started colonizing branches of the coral Acropora aspera (D ana) killed by the sea star Acanthaster planci (L innaeus) within less than 24 hours. Two blue-greens ((Microcoleus lyngbyaceus (C rouan) A g. and Hormothamnion solutum B. & F.)) dominated the early community but became less abundant than a brown ((Giffordia indica (S onder) P apenfuss & C hihara)) after 26 days. © 1975 Dr. W. Junk b. v. Publishers.