The relationship between genetic similarity and reproductive success in the branching coral Acropora intermedia

Abstract Reproductive success via sexual reproduction is a key factor in restoring and maintaining populations of branching corals. It is crucial to consider the relationship between genetic similarity and reproductive success when restoring branching acroporids because these corals have characteristics such as fragmentation and localized recruitment. In this study, we examined the relationship between genetic similarity (as measured by amplified fragment length polymorphisms) and reproductive success of Acropora intermedia in 2009 and 2010, at Okinawa, southern Japan. There was a significant negative relationship between fertilization rate and genetic similarity. However, there was no significant relationship between genetic similarity and planula survivorship. Based on these findings and the characteristics of A. intermedia, asexual reproduction may decrease genetic diversity and promote inbreeding in the population.