Lighting Effect on Coral Reefs

Email Domenic DiNatale

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What is known about this topic

We know that light and most corals have a dependent relationship. In order for a coral to survive, certain lighting requirements need to be met. In aquariums, people often use strong metal halide lighting to supplement the strong tropical sun.

What is believed to be true, but not yet proven

That Metal Halide Bulbs are acually the best that imitate the sun.

What is needed for greater understanding

More in depth research into the effects of light and coral

Why is this topic important?

To be able to keep corals alive in tanks. By growing corals in captivity, we can help to ease the collecting pressures on coral reefs. People collect corals for private home use, and it would be preferable to see these grown in captivity.

Specific Research question/hypothesis

That various lights are what is needed not just one specific type.

Data being gathered

Reefs are going to be used as a control to measure how the actual sun light affects coral growth.

Particular ecological/environmental

concerns and factors which influence
this research effort...

The whole aquaculture thing, by knowing the lighting requirements for coral growth, studies of aquaculture will be come more productive.

Preliminary evaluation and comments