Table showing the dominant 16S rRNA gene ribotypes, explaining the greatest differences/similarities between samples, excised from the DGGE gel.

Representatives from each sample types were included; (Biofilm [agar slides], Biofilm [agar coated artificial nubbins], coral mucus and the water column). Close matches (Blast nt), species identification, group affiliation (identified to closest published relatives on GenBank at the time of comparison) are included within the table. All samples were collected from Heron Island reef flat, March 2009.