News Animals

No eyes, no problem for color-sensing coral larvae

Different hues can switch sites where young corals settle

staghorn coral

WHY HERE  Colors of underwater lighting can change the preferences of staghorn coral larvae when they are making their big decision about where to live as adults (shown).

M. Strader

By Susan Milius

- More than 2 years ago

Staghorn coral larvae don’t have eyes. Yet shifting the color of underwater light can reverse their usual preferences for spots to settle.