Growth and luminescence characteristics in skeletons of massive Porites from a depth gradient in the central Great Barrier Reef

Growth characteristics (tissue thickness, extension rate, density, and calcification rate), luminescence and luminescent lines were analyzed in skeletal slices cut from similar sized and shaped colonies of massive Porites collected from Rib Reef, central Great Barrier Reef (GBR). Colonies were collected at four depths; 0-5, 5-10, 10-15 and 15-20 m. Relationships amongst the annual growth characteristics were similar to those reported for massive Porites growing at shallow depths (0-5 m) in other localities. Growth characteristics, luminescence and luminescent lines did not change significantly with increasing depth to a depth of 20 m.