The more the fish, the fewer the algae. This finding is important because it suggests that the presence of abundant seaweeds in coral zones is not prima facie evidence of poor water quality caused by run off of fertilisers and soil from the land. Rather, it may reflect that there are adequate nutrients available even without run off. However, the seaweeds are not invulnerable. One long-term study by this team had previously shown that hard corals can displace the seaweed from reef slopes over a period of five to ten years.
Different factors seem to control the abundance of soft corals.
Some types have been found to feed on phytoplankton, but there is no evidence that a proliferation of these particular species has taken place. This review will describe the current state of knowledge on priority issues, as determined by extensive interviews with scientists, managers and user groups. Primary literature will be collated into a reference bibliography which will be available free on the Internet. More research is needed on the subtle links between nearshore habitats and offshore fisheries. The crucial links for inshore fisheries are well known, but need more regard in coastal planning and land use management.