Growth of staghorn coral Acropora aspera (Dana) (Scleractinia: Acropridae) in relation to environmental factors at Kavaratti atollud(Lakshadweep Islands), India

摘要

Skeletal extension and calcification were measured over 2 years in branches of the staghorn coraludAcropora aspera from a shallow-water si te. Correlations were made between growth parameters andudenvironmental variables monitored over the same period. Calcification .varied significal)tly (9.4- 17.4udmg. 28d - ') than skeletal extension (3.1 -4.7 mm. 28d -') and unlike extension, it varied significantly betweenudseasons with lowest values during southwest monsoon (June-September). Seasonal reduction inudcalcification was probably associated with the reduced availability oflight due to increased cloud cover andudsediments in water. Extension, however, seemed to be under the direct influence of currents and sediments.udThe effect of environmen tal factors seemed more critical to calcification.