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Fish species plays surprise role in aiding coral reef recovery

12-18-2006 · EurekAlert!

In a study that marks progress in understanding the basis of coral reef recovery, researchers have revealed the critical importance of a rare batfish, Platax pinnatus, in promoting the return to health of a disturbed coral reef overgrown with algae. The findings bring to light a previously unrecognized role for the batfish species, which had not been considered a significant player in reef recovery after overfishing.

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Keywords: fish, species, plays, surprise, role, aiding, coral, reef, recovery, specy, play

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