The Effect of Temperature on the asexual reproduction of Aiptasia (Exaiptasia diaphana)

Authors: Kayla MaloneyHahn, Elisa Livengood

SUNY Campus: SUNY Morrisville

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: UU 111

Presentation #: 67

Timeslot: Session A 9:00-10:00 AM

Abstract: Aiptasia (Exaiptasia diaphana), a type of sea anemone, has become an important model organism for studying coral bleaching as it shares several characteristics with corals, including a host-symbiont relationship with algae. It is also an anemone that easily spreads in the home marine aquarium tank quickly becoming an unwanted pest. Our goal in this project was to understand the effects of temperature on Aiptasia growth and asexual reproduction. To observe the relationship between temperature and the growth and asexual reproduction of Aiptasia, we set up two saltwater containers with equal numbers of large Aiptasia. In one container, we placed a water heater, set to a higher temperature than the other (approximately 22°C versus 20°C). We also utilized three smaller containers as well, providing insight into how the size of the environment may impact growth and reproduction. Weekly we collected and counted asexual offspring from each container, recording the number collected. Additionally, to view the size of the Aiptasia asexual offspring, we utilized an inverted epifluorescent microscope, taking pictures and measurements. Our data shows that the container with the heater and a higher temperature produces more asexual offspring compared to others. Furthermore, the larger containers both produce more offspring in general compared to the small containers. This research is important as Aiptasia is a model for other marine organisms such as corals and other anemones. Learning how Aiptasia reacts to temperature provides insight into how coral reefs might respond to increased ocean temperatures.