Light and Reef-Building Corals

Abstract
Light is one of the major factors influencing the growth of reef-building corals. Historically, research has concentrated on photosynthetically active (visible) light. Recently, the importance of ultraviolet light and moonlight has been recognised. This review describes the varied effects of environmental light on the metabolism and ecology of reef-building corals. Modern research demonstrates that new approaches and interdisciplinary cooperation are required to further our knowledge of the photobiology of reef-building corals.