Seminar: Dr. Constance Rogers-Lowery, Catawba

UNC Marine Sciences’ Post-Doc Sarah Davies hosts a seminar on Coral Physiology presented by Constance Rogers-Lowery, Ph.D.

Seminar Title: Effects of Ocean Acidification on Early Life Stages of Coral

Presenter Affiliation: Catawba College

Summary: As the levels of atmospheric CO₂ increase, the pH of the oceans will become more acidic, resulting in decreased aragonite saturation of seawater.  As a consequence, the growth and survival of coral may be negatively affected.  While much research has been dedicated to the impact of CO₂ levels on calcification, skeletogenesis, and other physiological mechanisms of adult coral, little has dealt with early developmental stages. In this study, planula larvae and newly-settled spat of the coral Favia fragum were exposed to different levels of atmospheric CO₂ (ambient = 420ppm, 700ppm, and 1300ppm) and the effects on metabolism (photosynthesis and respiration) were measured.  Interestingly, data may indicate an adaption response of the coral planulae and polyps to elevated CO₂ after exposure for 1 week.  However, in parallel studies, bleaching and decreased growth were observed in primary polyps of Favia fragum when exposed to elevated CO₂.  Additionally, larvae exposed to elevated CO₂ had reduced levels of proteins and lipids, indicating increased use of internal energy reserves.

This work was performed at a small, liberal-arts undergraduate institution, with a teaching focus and limited resources.  The presenter will discuss her career in academics and how to continue to pursue a research program at institutions with limited resources.  This may be of interest to graduate students or postdoctoral researchers as they consider their future career options.