Feeding Behavior of Coralliophila sp. on Corals Affected by Caribbean Ciliate Infection (CCI): A New Possible Vector?

Coral reefs in the Caribbean are known to be affected by many coral diseases, yet ecology and etiology of most diseases remain understudied. The ciliate infection (CCI) caused ciliates belonging genus Halofolliculina is a common disease on reefs, with direct contact considered likely way through which can transmitted between infected healthy colonies. Here we report an observation regarding Coralliophila sp. snail feeding proximity cluster forming typical band CCI. result this twofold. behavior may allow passive attachment body or shell resulting indirect transport among colonies, makes it eligible as possible vector. Alternatively, lesions created from enhance progression already present well promoting additional infections allowing pathogens enter scar.