|
 |
Our work uses the extraordinary
capacity of the scleractinian corals to reproduce asexually by budding:
the microcolony thus formed, corresponds to a fragment of coral
completely covered with animal tissues.
The fragment is either placed on an adequate support (nylon net),
or hung in an aquarium attached to a nylon monofilament allowing for
its manipulation.
 |
The fragments correspond
to pieces of many branched polyps (Stylophora pistillata
for example), or to isolated polyps (Galaxea fascicularis).
After 10 days, tissue covers the skeleton; the micro colony
thus formed can be used 2 or 3 weeks after its preparation. |
Below : Stylophora pistillata (Click on the picture to enlarge)
Opposite: Galaxea fascicularis (Click on the picture to enlarge)
|
Microcolonies have several advantages:
- colonies are genetically identical,
- they are cultured in an environment whose parameters are strictly controlled,
- their small size allows for the use of micro techniques,
- production in quantity allows for experimental repetition,
- since the skeleton is entirely covered by tissue, exchange between radio-elements
in the water and the skeleton can be avoided in isotope kinetic
experiments.
|
