The Physiology of Sclerochronology: Mechanism and Variationin Formation of the High Density Band in the Massive Coral, Montastrea Annularis

高密度（HD）带标志着X- 珊瑚骨骼的X光照片，据推测， 对温度和光照季节性循环的生理反应。 然而，形成机制尚未建立， 任何珊瑚。 HD波段通常用于定义年度波段， 从而了解它的形成， 其时间的可变性是重要的。 在研究中，A 密度带如何形成的概念模型，基于生理 和形态学数据获得与早期的NSF资金，将 发展。 具体工作将包括四个方面：（1） 开发了一个形成机理的数学模型 一种主要的珊瑚， 古气候工作;（2）进行原位实验， 模型的有效性;（3）遗传与 形成时间变化的环境成分 HD波段;以及（4）评估 HD谱带与稳定同位素谱的关系。 这 研究将提供环境生理数据类型 需要精确使用珊瑚密度带， 古气候学

High density (HD) bands mark annual cycles of growth in X- radiographs of reef coral skeletons and presumably form due to physiological response to seasonal cycles of temperature and light. However, the mechanism of formation has not been established for any coral. The HD band is usually used to define the annual band, and thus understanding its formation, and the controls on variability in its timing is important. In the research, a conceptual model of how density bands form, based on physiological and morphological data obtained with earlier NSF funding, is will be developed. Four specific aspects of the work will include: (1) development of a mechanistic mathematical model for the formation of the HD band of Montastrea annularis, a major coral used in paleoclimate work; (2) conducting an in situ experiment to test the validity of the model; (3) evaluation of the genetic vs. environmental components of variation in time of formation of the HD band; and (4) assessment of the variation among corals in the relationship between HD bands and stable isotope profiles. This study will provide the type of environmental physiological data needed for the precise use of coral density bands for paleoclimatology.