Effects of the soft coral <i>Xenia puertogalerae</i> on the recruitment of scleractinian corals

Abstract

The effects of <i>Xenia puertogalerae</i> on the recruitment of juvenile corals was studied at two levels, involving early and more advanced settlement stages. Inhibition by <i>X. puertogalerae</i> was evident. Terracotta tiles established near soft coral colonies had fewer recruits than those located away from the soft corals. This inhibitory effect may be selective as acroporids were able to settle and survive in the presence of <i>Xenia</i>. This selectivity in allowing recruitment implies an important role for <i>X. puertogalerae</i> in determining succession and community structure. It may affect community structure by favouring the establishment of tolerant species, but effectively deters settlement of other corals in the area.