[Coral-List] Sulphur aerosol compounds detected in coral mucus

[Graham Jones]

Concentrations of dimethylsulphide (DMS) and its precursor compound 
dimethylsulphoniopropionate (DMSP), two sulphur compounds that are involved 
in the formation of natural atmospheric aerosol particles in clouds are 
reported for three coral reefs in the Great Barrier Reef.

The concentrations of DMS (61-18,665 nM) and DMSP (1978-54,381 nM) measured 
in mucus ropes samples are the highest yet reported in the marine 
environment, exceeding values reported for highly productive polar waters 
and sea ice algal communities. Concentrations of DMSP in coral mucus ranged 
from 1226 to 25,443 nM, with mucus from Acropora formosa containing the 
highest levels of DMSP. DMS and DMSP were enriched in surface microlayer 
samples and pore waters from coral sediments. Overall the results suggest 
that coral reefs in the Great Barrier Reef are significant sources of DMS, 
a compound that significantly affects the radiative climate.

Broadbent, A.D. and Jones, G.B. (2004). DMS and DMSP in mucus ropes, coral 
mucus, surface films and sediment pore waters from coral reefs in the Great 
Barrier Reef. Marine and Freshwater Research 55, 849-855.

Graham Jones

Associate Professor Graham Jones
School of Environmental Science & Management
Southern Cross University
Lismore Campus
PO Box 157
Lismore
NSW 2480

Telephone: (02) 66203009
Fax: (02) 66212669
Email: gjones at scu.edu.au