New research reveals that the symbiotic relationship between coral and algae, essential for the health of our oceans, dates back 385 million years.

This discovery, shared in the prestigious journal, Nature, shows that the partnership began well before the evolution of modern corals.

Fossilized reefs from Northern Africa and Germany have shown the chemical signatures of ancient algae, suggesting that their relationship with corals started in the Devonian Period, between 419 to 359 million years ago.

Reef Ecosystem

Coral reefs are vital ecosystems, providing a home to about a quarter of all marine life. This incredible diversity is largely due to the symbiosis between corals and algae. In this relationship, algae benefit by receiving shelter, while corals gain essential nutrients.

The study's lead, PhD student Jonathan Jung, highlights that the fossil record for corals has notable gaps, making it hard to pinpoint when they first formed these symbiotic relationships.

Fossil Evidence

By examining fossils from the Devonian Period, researchers were able to find the first signs of this ancient partnership, significantly pushing back the first known evidence of coral and algae symbiosis by 170 million years.

Jung emphasizes that this discovery is a crucial part of understanding the evolutionary success and complexity of ancient reefs.

Devonian Reefs

In the Devonian Period, coral reefs were much more expansive than they are today, due to the higher levels of calcium in the oceans. These conditions allowed reefs to grow along extensive coastlines.

Unlike today's scleractinian corals, Devonian reefs were dominated by tabulate and rugose corals. These ancient corals, alongside sponges and other marine life, created diverse habitats that supported newly evolved fish species.

Unraveling History

Determining whether Devonian reefs had algae is crucial to comprehending why these ancient reefs were so successful.

This exciting research marks an essential step in piecing together the history of ocean life, demonstrating the enduring and foundational importance of the coral and algae partnership in marine ecosystems.