LEC Knowledge Base

Coral Proteins & Zooxanthellae

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Zooxanthellae

Zooxathellae; The Life-Blood of Coral.

Most reef-building corals have a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic cells called zooxanthellae, which reside within the coral’s tissues. In this mutualistic relationship, the coral provides the zooxanthellae with a protected environment and necessary compounds for photosynthesis, while the zooxanthellae produce oxygen and assist in the removal of waste materials. Additionally, the zooxanthellae supply the coral with glucose, glycerol, and amino acids produced through photosynthesis, which the coral uses to create proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, as well as calcium carbonate. This tight nutrient recycling between the zooxanthellae and coral polyps is a significant factor in the growth and productivity of coral reefs, with as much as 90 percent of the organic material produced by the zooxanthellae being transferred to the host coral tissue.

Furthermore, zooxanthellae are responsible for the vibrant and distinct colors found in many stony corals. If a coral becomes stressed, the polyps can expel their zooxanthellae, resulting in a bleached appearance. If this condition persists for too long, it can lead to the coral’s demise.

Due to the coral’s reliance on the photosynthetic abilities of zooxanthellae, reef-building corals behave like plants and require clear water to allow sunlight to reach the zooxanthellae for photosynthesis. Therefore, they are typically found in areas with low turbidity and productivity. This creates a paradox, as coral reefs require nutrient-poor water, yet are among the most productive and diverse marine environments.

    What is a Coral Protien?

    Coral protein refers to proteins that are found in the skeletal structure of coral reefs. These proteins play a crucial role in the formation of coral reefs, as they help to create the calcium carbonate structure that makes up the reef.

    Coral reefs are built by tiny animals called coral polyps, which secrete a hard, calcium carbonate exoskeleton. The exoskeleton is made up of numerous layers of calcium carbonate crystals, which are laid down by the coral polyps over time.

    The proteins in the coral exoskeleton play an important role in the formation and maintenance of the calcium carbonate structure. These proteins help to regulate the formation and growth of the calcium carbonate crystals, ensuring that the coral skeleton grows strong and resilient.

    In recent years, scientists have become increasingly interested in the potential uses of coral proteins in a variety of applications, including biotechnology, materials science, and medicine. Research has shown that coral proteins possess a range of unique properties that make them potentially valuable in these fields, including high biocompatibility, structural stability, and the ability to form self-assembling structures.

    Coral Proteins Reaction(s) to Light

    Coral proteins can exhibit different reactions to light depending on the specific type of protein and the wavelength of the light. For example, some coral proteins called fluorescent proteins can absorb light and then emit it at a different wavelength, producing a glowing effect. This fluorescence is useful for scientists to study the movement and behavior of proteins within living cells.

    Additionally, some coral proteins can be sensitive to different wavelengths of light and may undergo structural changes or chemical reactions in response to light. For instance, one study found that a protein found in the coral Acropora millepora changes its structure when exposed to blue light, leading to an increase in its ability to bind calcium ions. This calcium binding can help regulate the growth and formation of coral skeletons.

    Overall, the way coral proteins react to light can have important implications for coral growth, as well as for the development of new technologies and biomedical applications that harness the unique properties of these proteins.

    Coral Protein Relationship to Coloration

    Coral coloration is influenced by the presence of pigments in the coral tissue, as well as by the way that light interacts with the coral skeleton. The color of coral can also be affected by the presence of fluorescent proteins that are produced by the coral’s tissues.

    Some of these fluorescent proteins, such as green fluorescent protein (GFP), can emit light at specific wavelengths when exposed to ultraviolet light. These proteins can give corals a range of colors, including green, yellow, red, and purple.

    Additionally, the structure of the coral skeleton can also contribute to its coloration. The interaction between light and the calcium carbonate crystals in the skeleton can cause light to be refracted or scattered in different ways, resulting in a range of colors and patterns.

    Coral proteins play a critical role in the formation and maintenance of the coral skeleton, including its coloration. Some of the proteins involved in this process, such as the fluorescent proteins mentioned above, can contribute to the coloration of the coral tissue. Other proteins are involved in regulating the growth and structure of the skeleton, which can affect the way that light interacts with the coral and the resulting coloration.

    Can Coral Proteins Fight?

    Coral proteins are not capable of actively fighting in the sense of engaging in physical combat or aggression, as they are non-motile and lack the ability to move on their own. However, coral proteins do play an important role in the coral’s ability to defend itself against various stressors and threats.

    For example, when corals are exposed to high temperatures, pollution, or other environmental stressors, they may produce stress proteins called heat shock proteins. These proteins help the coral to survive by repairing damaged proteins and preventing the accumulation of harmful molecules in the cells.

    Coral proteins can also play a role in defending the coral against disease-causing organisms, such as bacteria or viruses. Some coral proteins have antimicrobial properties that allow them to kill or inhibit the growth of these harmful microorganisms, while others may help to activate the coral’s immune system and promote the production of protective molecules.

    Overall, while coral proteins are not capable of fighting in the traditional sense, they play a critical role in helping corals to defend themselves against a variety of stressors and threats. By producing specialized proteins, corals are able to adapt to changing conditions and maintain their health and survival in a challenging and dynamic marine environment.

    Are Coral Proteins like Muscles?

    Coral proteins are not exactly like miniature muscles for corals, although they do play a similar structural role in the formation of the coral skeleton. While muscles are composed of long, thin fibers that can contract and relax to produce movement, coral proteins are more like building blocks that help to construct and maintain the coral’s skeletal structure.

    The coral skeleton is made up of calcium carbonate crystals that are laid down by the coral polyps, which are tiny animals that live within the coral colony. The polyps secrete a variety of proteins and other organic compounds that help to regulate the formation and growth of the calcium carbonate crystals, ensuring that the skeleton grows strong and resilient over time.

    Some of these coral proteins are involved in the initial nucleation and growth of the calcium carbonate crystals, while others are involved in the ongoing maintenance and repair of the skeleton. For example, some coral proteins have been shown to bind to calcium ions and help to regulate the mineralization process, while others are involved in the removal of damaged or weakened parts of the skeleton.

    Overall, while coral proteins do not function exactly like miniature muscles, they do play a critical role in the formation and maintenance of the coral skeleton, which provides the structural support and protection necessary for coral survival in the marine environment.

    Popular Saltwater Invertebrates

    Saltwater invertebrates are an incredibly diverse group of creatures that inhabit the vast and fascinating world of the ocean. From the smallest of crustaceans to the spiniest of echinoderms, these creatures play an essential role in the marine ecosystem. Here is a list of the most popular saltwater invertebrates.(Not All listed species are reef safe! Remember to do your studying before purchasing these creatures.)

    1. Nudibranchs: 

    Nudibranchs are a group of soft-bodied, marine gastropod mollusks that are popular in the aquarium hobby due to their vibrant colors and unique shapes. They come in a wide variety of species, each with their own specific dietary needs and care requirements.

    1. Tiger Tail Sea Cucumber: 

    The Tiger Tail Sea Cucumber is a popular species of sea cucumber in the aquarium hobby due to its unique shape and coloration. They are known for their ability to filter large amounts of detritus and other waste materials from the aquarium substrate.

    1. Pink and Black Sea Cucumber: 

    This species of sea cucumber is known for its striking pink and black coloration. Like other sea cucumbers, they are excellent at filtering the aquarium substrate and are relatively easy to care for.

    1. Sea Apple: 

    The Sea Apple is a type of filter-feeding sea cucumber that is popular in the aquarium hobby due to its bright colors and unique appearance. They require a specialized diet and should only be kept by experienced aquarists.

    1. Harlequin Shrimp: 

    The Harlequin Shrimp is a small, brightly colored shrimp that is popular in the aquarium hobby for its unique feeding habits. They feed exclusively on starfish, which makes them a good choice for controlling populations of pest starfish in the aquarium.

    1. Sand Sifting Starfish: 

    The Sand Sifting Starfish is a type of starfish that is popular in the aquarium hobby for its ability to sift through and clean the aquarium substrate. They require a stable environment and a specialized diet.

    1. Serpent Starfish: 

    The Serpent Starfish is a common species of starfish that is popular in the aquarium hobby due to its hardiness and ease of care. They are active scavengers and help to keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Blue/Red Linkia Starfish: 

    Linkia Starfish are a group of starfish that are popular in the aquarium hobby for their unique shape and coloration. They are relatively easy to care for but require a stable environment and a specialized diet.

    1. Coral Banded Shrimp: 

    The Coral Banded Shrimp is a popular species of shrimp in the aquarium hobby due to its striking red and white coloration. They are active scavengers and can help to keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Red/Blue Leg Hermit Crabs: 

    Hermit crabs are a type of crustacean that are popular in the aquarium hobby for their ability to scavenge and help keep the aquarium clean. Red/Blue Leg Hermit Crabs are a popular species due to their striking coloration.

    1. Scarlet Hermit Crabs: 

    Scarlet Hermit Crabs are a species of hermit crab that are popular in the aquarium hobby due to their bright red coloration. They are active scavengers and can help to keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Emerald Crabs: 

    Emerald Crabs are a popular species of crab in the aquarium hobby due to their bright green coloration and ability to scavenge and help keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Halloween Hermit Crabs: 

    Halloween Hermit Crabs are a popular species of hermit crab in the aquarium hobby due to their unique orange and black coloration. They are active scavengers and can help to keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Electric Blue Leg Hermit Crabs: 

    Electric Blue Leg Hermit Crabs are a popular species of hermit crab in the aquarium hobby due to their blue and black leg pattern. These are fantastic hermits to add color and pizazz  to your tank.

    1. Pom-Pom Crabs: 

    Pom-Pom Crabs are a species of small, brightly colored crab that are popular in the aquarium hobby for their unique appearance. They are active scavengers and can help to keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Horseshoe Crabs: 

    Horseshoe Crabs are a unique species of invertebrate that are popular in the aquarium hobby for their prehistoric appearance. They are relatively hardy and can help to keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Tuxedo Sea Urchins: 

    Tuxedo Sea Urchins are a species of sea urchin that are popular in the aquarium hobby for their striking black and white coloration. They require a stable environment and a specialized diet.

    1. Pincushion Sea Urchin: 

    The Pincushion Sea Urchin is a common species of sea urchin that is popular in the aquarium hobby for its hardiness and ability to scavenge and help keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Long-Spined Sea Urchin: 

    The Long-Spined Sea Urchin is a species of sea urchin that is popular in the aquarium hobby for its unique appearance and ability to help keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Pencil Sea Urchin: 

    Pencil Sea Urchins are a species of sea urchin that are popular in the aquarium hobby for their unique appearance and ability to help keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Trochus Snails: 

    Trochus Snails are a popular species of snail in the aquarium hobby due to their ability to scavenge and help keep the aquarium clean. They are hardy and relatively easy to care for.

    1. Top Crown Snails: 

    Top Crown Snails are a species of snail that are popular in the aquarium hobby for their unique appearance and ability to help keep the aquarium clean. They require a stable environment and a specialized diet.

    1. Margarita Snails: 

    Margarita Snails are a common species of snail that are popular in the aquarium hobby due to their hardiness and ability to help keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Nassarius Snails: 

    Nassarius Snails are a species of snail that are popular in the aquarium hobby for their ability to scavenge and help keep the aquarium clean. They are relatively hardy and easy to care for. (Sea Zombies!)

    1. Turbo Snails: 

    Turbo Snails are a popular species of snail in the aquarium hobby due to their ability to scavenge and help keep the aquarium clean. They are hardy and relatively easy to care for.

    1. Debelius Reef Lobster: 

    The Debelius Reef Lobster is a popular species of lobster in the aquarium hobby due to its unique appearance and ability to scavenge and help keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Red Hawaiian Reef Lobster: 

    Red Hawaiian Reef Lobsters are a species of lobster that are popular in the aquarium hobby for their striking red coloration and ability to help keep the aquarium clean.

    1. Peppermint shrimp: 

    Peppermint shrimp are members of the genus Lysmata and are known for their striking red and white coloration. They are commonly kept in saltwater aquariums for their ability to consume aiptasia, a type of pest anemone that can overrun a tank if left unchecked.

    1. Cleaner shrimp: 

    Cleaner Shrimp (skunk) are members of the Palaemonidae family, and are known for their ability to pick parasites and dead skin off the bodies of other live fish and predators.

    Overall, there is a wide variety of saltwater invertebrates available in the aquarium hobby, each with their own unique appearance, dietary needs, and care requirements. Adding these fascinating creatures to your saltwater tank can not only add a pop of color and interest, but also help to keep your aquarium clean and balanced. Again, remember to do your research about each species comparability before adding to your tank to make sure you can continue to run a healthy and stable reef tank.

    ReefTips – Equipment Protein Skimmer

    Limited Edition Coral - Knowledge Base - Protein Skimmers

    ReefTips - Equipment Protein Skimmer

    What is a Protein Skimmer?

    In simple terms a Protein Skimmer is a container filled with a combination of air and water that allows for the filtration and collection of excess food, waste, and debris which would otherwise pollute your tank.

    In addition to filtering out waste, a protein skimmer is a great way to promote gas exchange within your aquarium. As your fish consume available oxygen, producing carbon dioxide, we need to replace the oxygen and remove the carbon dioxide. Protein skimmers do this by supplying fresh oxygen to the tank in the form of bubbles and also create surface movement to allow for carbon dioxide to escape.

    Which Protein Skimmers Do We Recommend?

    Bubble Magus Curve 5, 7, 9

    The Bubble Magus Curve Protein Skimmers are arguably the best cone shaped skimmers on the market for the price. These skimmers have a small footprint thanks to their internal pump and have a very quiet operation. These skimmers also have an internal diffuser plate to evenly distribute the bubbles for more efficient waste collection.

    When considering a Bubble Magus Curve it is important to take the following into consideration. Cone shaped protein skimmers need a skimmer chamber where the water level is constant. A variance in water level will affect the bubble level inside the skimmer, causing it to fluctuate, and not provide a consistent skim.

    ASM G Series

    If you decided to pass on the Bubble Magus Curve Protein Skimmer because your water level fluctuates, then an ASM G Series is the protein skimmer for you. This skimmer will maintain a constant bubble level as your water level fluctuates. This is great if you do not have an automatic top off system.

    The ASM G Series produces more noise than most skimmers and you are more likely to hear the operation of the pump. These protein skimmers also lack a diffuser plate, and are less efficient than most cone type skimmers. This being said, they are still the obvious choice for those who cannot maintain a constant water level in their skimmer space.

    Nyos Quantum

    The Nyos Quantum Protein Skimmers provide the most skimming capacity for the smallest footprint. Great for those who may not have a lot of room for a skimmer but they come with a higher price tag. Nyos skimmers are quiet and energy efficient, with superior construction quality. The air muffler with adjustable air intake (allow for fine tuning of bubble level), in addition to a clear impeller housing (allowing for easy maintenance), make this skimmer one of the top picks. The only real draw back to the Nyos Quantum is its price tag.

    TOP PICK - Reef Octopus Regal & Elite Series

    Reef Octopus has been one of the top brands in protein skimmers for some time now. The Reef Octopus Regal & Elite Series are among the best protein skimmers on the market. These skimmers use a DC VariouS pump which allows for ultimate controllability with nearly silent operation and maximum energy efficiency. This quality protein skimmer comes with all the essentials in functionality along with some nice luxuries like a float switch that will turn off the skimmer if the collection cup level gets too high.

    When considering the Reef Octopus Regal and Elite Series it is important to consider the footprint as it is larger than most although for a higher price tag Reef Octopus offers space saver versions.

    So there you have it a run down of what a protein skimmer is, why they are beneficial for your set up and a list of our four favorite protein skimmers. If you have more questions about protein skimmers please feel free to contact us or reach out to us on social media. If you are ready to purchase your protein skimmer, head over to (add in LEC Supply skimmer link here) and place your order today. Or come visit us in store. As your salt water experts here in Phoenix, Arizona we are always ready to help.

    #ReefTips – Welcome

    Limited Edition Coral - Knowledge Base

    Limited Edition Coral - Knowledge Base

    Hey Reefers! Welcome to Limited Edition Corals #Reeftips. A knowledge base full of tips and tricks to enhance your reef.

    Join us over the coming months Limited Edition Coral will be creating a knowledge base to share our expertise with you! We want to bust some myths, give you some tips and share our reefing experiences. We would love to see your tanks and set ups on social media with the #LECReef. Share with us and the greater reefing community your builds, favorite corals and fish. If you have a topic or specific question you would like us to address please contact us and we will cover it in an upcoming post.

    As we embark on this exciting project our first series of posts are going to focus on some of the basic equipment that is required to set up an aquarium. Limited Edition Corals often get asked what do I need to get a tank started? So it seems like a great place to start our knowledge base. Check back soon and keep an eye on our social media for updates!

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