Scientists Discover How 'Walking' Corals Move Towards Light

New research reveals that free-living mushroom corals use pulsed tissue inflation to migrate toward optimal light conditions, showcasing surprising adaptability.

• The free-living mushroom coral Cycloseris cyclolites uses rhythmic tissue inflation and deflation to slowly propel itself across the seafloor, a movement mechanism similar to jellyfish swimming.
• High-resolution time-lapse imaging revealed the coral's preference for blue light, which aligns with the deeper water habitats it favors for survival and reproduction.
• The coral's ability to migrate toward specific light sources is critical for maintaining its symbiotic relationship with dinoflagellates, which rely on light for photosynthesis.
• These movements also assist the coral in survival tasks such as self-righting when overturned and clearing sediment after storms.
• Researchers suggest that understanding coral mobility could help predict how these species adapt to environmental changes, including those driven by climate change.

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