Discovery of Chlamydia-like Bacteria in Great Barrier Reef Coral Raises Safety Concerns.

Researchers from the University of Melbourne have discovered a chlamydia-like bacteria in coral tissue in the Great Barrier Reef, which is the first time such pathogens have been detected in corals. While it is not yet known if the bacteria is helpful or harmful to the coral, it is unlikely that humans will be affected by swimming in the reef. The researchers believe that the bacteria might help corals, and they are hoping to develop bacterial probiotics for corals to improve their resistance to thermal stress and survival rates caused by climate warming.