Percorrer por autor "Filipe, Joana"
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- Towards controlling the reproductive cycle of azooxanthellate gorgonians in cultivation: diet and environmental driversPublication . Filipe, Joana; Engelen, Aschwin; Coelho, MárcioThe present study compared the feeding preferences and reproduction of two species of gorgonian corals, Paramuricea grayi (Johnson, 1861) and Eunicella verrucosa (Pallas, 1766). The research objectives were to assess different feeding responses these two species, had when given different types of food, and when the feed was given additional treatments (adding yeast, blending, or both). Daily observations of the proportion of open polyps and mucus production were conducted, before, during, and after the feeding periods. Additionally, each feeding period was recorded, to analyse polyp behaviour. The second objective was to differentiate the reproductive strategies of the two species (spawning periods and gonad development), and better understand their reproductive cycle. This was done by regularly sampling fragments and analysing the gonads of different colonies. Results showed that feeding was better with live food. Additionally, frozen red plankton was the least ingested type of food used. When comparing the two species they showed overall similar feeding rates, except when live food was used, in which case, E. verrucosa showed a higher feeding rate. The different treatments showed little positive effects on the feeding rate of P. grayi. However, the same was not observed for E. verrucosa, with improved feeding rates when yeast was added to rotifers and cyclops, and slightly with copepods. Furthermore, both species developed mature gonads throughout this study. Interspecific differentiation was detected in spawning periods, while P. grayi possibly spawned at the beginning of August, E. verrucosa predicted spawning was at the end of August, and at the beginning of September. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the feeding preferences and reproductive strategies of two coral species of gorgonians, kept at Oceanário de Lisboa. The results highlight the importance of considering species-specific differences in coral biology and ecology when maintaining these species in aquariums.