Presentation Details
| Effects of temperature on cleaner goby interaction with clients Lydia Wassink1, Kevin Wolfe2, Keanu Donoho2, Channing Livingston2, David Varley2. 1New College of Florida, Sarasota, FL, USA.2University of South Florida, Sarasota, FL, USA |
Abstract
Cleaner gobies (Elacatinus oceanops) engage in important mutualistic interactions with a wide range of reef fishes by removing ectoparasites. Cleaning services, however, are likely influenced by both biotic and abiotic factors experienced by cleaners. Specifically, reef fishes are increasingly subjected to elevated (high-stress) temperatures. In addition, cleaner gobies often reside within territories of aggressive dusky damselfish (Stegastes adustus), which may influence cleaner behavior and access to potential clients. This study examined how temperature influenced the relationship between dusky damselfish and cleaner gobies, and how this in turn impacted goby interaction with potential clients. Ten cleaner gobies were housed with dusky damselfish maintained at either moderate (26.6°C) or elevated (30°C) temperatures. Each goby was presented with 3D printed models of three common reef client species. Behavioral reactions of both dusky damselfish and cleaner gobies toward models was quantified. Results will yield insights into the complex dynamics of interspecies interactions in reef systems encountering changing temperatures.
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No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author.
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