Population structure and connectivity of the mountainous star coral, Orbicella faveolata , throughout the wider Caribbean region

A genetic analysis of the mountainous star coral, Orbicella faveolata, reveals significant connectivity across the wider Caribbean region, with populations generally well-mixed (F_ST = 0.038) despite notable substructure at local and regional scales. The study identifies a genetic break around the Mona Passage in the north, while also detecting strong connectivity between Curaçao and Mexico, suggesting that the southern margin of this barrier is permeable to dispersal. Additionally, it highlights a distinct genetic break within the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, likely influenced by oceanographic patterns that promote larval retention in southern Belize. The research also suggests that Flower Garden Banks may function as a downstream genetic sink. These findings provide critical insights for the conservation of this threatened species and contribute to the broader understanding of coral reef connectivity in the Caribbean.

Rippe, J. P., Matz, M. V., Green, E. A., Medina, M., Khawaja, N. Z., Pongwarin, T., Pinzón C., J. H., Castillo, K. D., & Davies, S. W. (2017). Population structure and connectivity of the mountainous star coral, Orbicella faveolata , throughout the wider Caribbean region. Ecology and Evolution, 7(22), 9234–9246. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.3448