Saturday DNA! Corals - Hiding in Plain Sight!

Corals are animals that play an important role in marine ecosystems, from providing food and shelter to other organisms, to protecting coastlines from storms. There are over 6,000 known species of corals, but did you know that some coral species look so similar that even scientists have trouble telling them apart? In this fun and interactive session, we will explore how researchers use DNA to identify these “cryptic” coral species—organisms that look the same but are genetically different.

· Participants will:

· discover fascinating facts about corals and their different growth patterns;

· use special guides to identify corals based on their features;

· learn how marine biologists use molecular biology for conservation and identification;

· perform DNA sequence alignments to uncover hidden coral species.

Ages 10-13, one adult chaperone 18 years or older required. Chaperones must purchase a ticket and fully participate in all program activities.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory | DNA Learning Center, 334 Main Street (25A), Cold Spring Harbor, United States