Resilient Reefs:

How Algae-Grazing Fish Maintain Balance in Coral Ecosystems

August 12 | Presented by Drs. Doug Rasher and Sara Swaminathan

Tropical parrotfish and surgeonfish are essential for the health of coral reefs, with an herbaceous diet that keeps harmful seaweeds in check after disturbances like storms and bleaching. They’re also a critical protein source for people.

Achieving a balance between ecosystem and human health requires a better understanding of the ecological role of these fish, from what they’re eating to how they adapt to change.

Join Senior Research Scientist Doug Rasher and Postdoctoral Scientist Sara Swaminathan on the sunny reefs of the Caribbean to learn about how algae-grazing fish may be key to coral reef resilience in a rapidly changing ocean.

Register for Café Sci session 4 below. Complete registrations for the other Café Sci sessions here.