I've read papers and articles that describe in great detail how SPS grow. If I recall correctly, they talk about a thin fluid layer between the skeleton and the tissue, in which calcification occurs. They talk about the reactions that drive the calcification, etc. One thing I don't remember them talking about is the growth of the tissue and polyps... But in that case, it was easy to wave away due to the relatively low mass ... Probably coming from nutrients in the water?
But what about soft corals? I've seen no such information about their growth, and googling doesn't turn up much either. Photosynthesis can provide energy but not mass ... And soft corals can grow large! I suppose some LPS are similarly questionable.
Folks talk about nutrient export via xenia. They will grow even without feeding. What exactly are they pulling out of the water and how do they use it?
But what about soft corals? I've seen no such information about their growth, and googling doesn't turn up much either. Photosynthesis can provide energy but not mass ... And soft corals can grow large! I suppose some LPS are similarly questionable.
Folks talk about nutrient export via xenia. They will grow even without feeding. What exactly are they pulling out of the water and how do they use it?