Comparison of Symbiotic Algae Densities in Coral Comparison of Symbiotic Algae Densities in Coral

Coral reefs function in a symbiotic relationship with dinoflagellates (zooxanthellae). Continuous release of anthropogenic pollutants، mainly into the aquatic environments، and the resulting global climate change threatens coral health by endangering this symbiotic relationship. The object of this study is to measure the zooxanthellae density in Poritescompressa to estimate health of coral reefs in the Northern part of Nay Band Bay in the vicinity of the South Pars Petrochemical facilities and southern part of Nay Band Bay farther away from these industrials. Corals in the north of Nay Band Bay showed more signs of degradation. The highest mean zooxanthellae density was 3607849±229894 N/cm2 in south of Nay Band Bay in February. Mean zooxanthellae density was significantly (p<0. 05) higher in the south of Nay Bad Bay in February than other months، indicating healthier corals at this region.