Parasites and coral‐associated invertebrates that impact coral health

Abstract

Abstract Globally coral reefs are in decline, largely driven by local anthropogenic pressures combined with broader cumulative impacts from climate change. Coral aquaculture will play an important role in active reef restoration and attempts to preserve some semblance of coral reefs in highly impacted areas. Achieving maximum growth and survivorship of cultured corals is necessary to achieve optimal results. This is not possible without the study of coral pests and diseases which can be detrimental to coral health. Here we review the complex relationships between corals and their associated symbiotic organisms, identify invertebrates that may harm the corals and suggest known management techniques in captivity. Groups considered included acoels (Xenacoelomorpha: Acoela), digeneans (Trematoda: Digenea), polyclads (Rhabditophora: Polycladida), gastropods (Mollusca: Gastropoda), decapods (Malacostraca: Decapoda), copepods (Hexanauplia: Copepoda) and pyrgomatids (Cirripedia: Pyrgomatidae). There are few empirically validated management techniques for coral pests, particularly in terms of large‐scale aquaculture, emphasizing the need for further directed research in this area. Information generated through the ornamental trade and hobbyists is valuable to inform future research direction targeted towards captive coral husbandry, reef ecosystem management and restoration strategies.