Embryo development of Acropora aspera (Dana, 1846) at Tang-Khen Bay, Phuket Province
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Abstract
Each coral species shows variation in the embryo development period. Therefore, development stage studies help to understand the dispersal potential and dynamics of coral populations in each species and each region. In addition, the information obtained should help coral reef management and restoration plan. The objective of this study was to study the embryonic development of Acropora aspera. Corals with mature eggs from Tang-Khen Bay, Phuket, were acclimated in a large naturally lighted outdoor laboratory aquarium system to record the spawning time and larval development periods. This study was conducted in July-August 2021. Acropora aspera was found to be a hermaphroditic broadcasting and spawning 5-7 days after the full moon. It begins approximately 2 hours after sunset. Then, the fertilized zygote starts to divide into stage 2 blastomeres 2.30 hours after release of the gametes into the seawater. The embryo enters the gastrula stage within 14.30 hours after spawning, ending the first stage of development. Later, at 37.30 hours, the early planula appeared, which is the beginning of the larva stage. The elongate planula takes a total of 67.30 hours to develop. The planula swims near the seawater surface for ≈ 24 hours. After that, they descend and settle on the substrate within 6 days after spawning.
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