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A fascinating algae that is the primary food supply for coral around the world has started to yield secrets. It is a very unique lifeform, with 100x the DNA of humans and a unique non-chlorophyll-based photosynthesis method. It even has an impact on global warming by soaking up atmospheric CO2.
Symbiodinium converts CO2 into carbohydrates, which the coral feeds on. A decline would severely impact CO2 levels worldwide, in addition to killing off coral reefs around the world. Stresses such as increased heat (ocean water temperature), light, CO2 levels and pollution causes the coral to reject the algae, bleach and die. Studies are currently underway to determine if the algae can be made more resistant to stress, and possibly interfere with the coral expulsion.
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