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Results of Microscopic
Examination of Electrically James M. Cervino I have made microscopic examinations to determine if tissue abnormalities or cancerous-like growths are found in corals growing on "electric reefs" as well as specimens living in the surrounding waters. I looked at six different species of reef building corals (Acropora, Porites, Pocillopora, Montipora, Seriatopora, and Turbinaria). Samples included specimens grown on Biorock structures along with samples from the same colonies growing on the nearby reef from which the Biorock corals were cultured: that is they were genetically identical and grown under similar environmental conditions. These were examined "blind", so I did not know which were electric corals and which were controls. Of the many samples that were sent to me, my lab found that there were no tissue abnormalities found on any of the samples. There were no irregularly shaped blotches or lesions found on the polyps, or other sections of coral tissue. I also checked for Neoplasms; and found no skeletal alterations that indicate tumors or "cancerous growth". Such irregular growths and tissue abnormalities are known to occur sporadically in corals in the field and in aquariums. I recommend taking pictures first if tumors are seen, and then we can go from there. To identify gene mutations one would have to conduct a complete DNA and Protein analysis. As full DNA sequencing has not yet been done on any corals, there would be no basis for comparison, and very large amounts of funding and time would be needed. However, before this is worth doing one must find a Neoplasm or host tissue tumor on the specimens, or in the images you sent of the many reef structures, and that is not the case! It would be a waste of time and funds to investigate this without first having clear visual signs of abnormalities. James M. Cervino |
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