Scientists typically select Acropora as research models since they are the most diverse genus of hard coral, having over 120 species. Most species within this genus have polyps which are dimorphic: axial polyps grow rapidly and have lighter coloration, while radial polyps are small and are darker in coloration. In the Acropora genus, gamete synthesis and photosynthesis occur at the basal polyps, growth occurs mainly at the radial polyps. Growth at the site of the radial polyps encompasses two processes: asexual reproduction via mitotic cell proliferation, and skeleton deposition of the calcium carbonate via extra cellular matrix (EMC) proteins acting as differentially expressed (DE) signaling genes between both branch tips and bases. These processes lead to colony differentiation, which is the most accurate distinguisher between coral species. In the Acropora genus, colony differentiation through up-regulation and down-regulation of DEs.
Scientists typically select Acropora as research models since they are the most diverse genus of hard coral having over 120 species Most species within this genus have polyps which are dimorphic axial polyps grow rapidly and have lighter coloration while radial polyps are small and are darker in coloration In the Acropora genus gamete synthesis and photosynthesis occur at the basal polyps growth occurs mainly at the radial polyps Growth at the site of the radial polyps encompasses two processes asexual reproduction via mitotic cell proliferation and skeleton deposition of the calcium carbonate via extra cellular matrix (EMC) proteins acting as differentially expressed (DE) signaling genes between both branch tips and bases These processes lead to colony differentiation which is the most accurate distinguisher between coral species In the Acropora genus colony differentiation through up-regulation and down-regulation of DEs