Aquarickettsia rohweri

58 July 19, 2023

Aquarickettsia rohweri

This is a bacterial symbiont* associated with many different marine invertebrates including corals. In corals this bacterium impairs coral growth and is associated with disease. 

(*Formally the word symbiont includes harmful interactions like parasites). 

A. rohweri in reef tanks

Although this coral symbiont is widespread in nature, its relatively rare in aquarium samples. 

A. rohweri was detected in less than 3% of the samples we've tested.
When present, this bacterium generally makes up a very small fraction of the community (0.1% or less).

Studies on A. rohweri

  • First description of A. rohweri (Read more)
  • A. rohweri impairs coral growth (Read more)
  • A. rohweri increases corals’ disease susceptibility (Read more)
  • A. rohweri can be transmitted through the water (Read more)

Other Resources