Dr. Hemicara reveals more results about a link between reef keeping and physiological behavior

2/20/96 (RTO-NYC)

Dr. Hemicara of the prestigious Reef Encounters Environmental Forecasting Expedition and Registry (REEFER) had previously reported that “we've found some unusual biological compounds degassing from areas in and around reefs, and that they seem to affect human brain function.” Now that he and his team have performed new tests, they have isolated these compounds and have started to analyze them.

Dr. Hermicara says “We’re amazed at what we’re finding. This is completely new, without precedence.” Preliminary analysis has shown that the compounds produce euphoric effects in humans, which he says, “can manifest itself in many ways and to many degrees.” Hermicara says that the effect has a strong addictive potential, but most people affected have no idea of what is causing it. One of the strongest effects is that the affected seem to want to increase the amount of the compound they are being exposed to, and that ever small concentrations over short periods of time can have these effects. “Sea side residents seem to show similar addiction as people who keep reef tanks in their homes. You can see the effects of this when these residents rebuild time and time again on the waters edge, despite the loss of property, time and money. And consider the numbers of people who travel through hellish traffic just to sit on the beach, usually at some distance from any reef, or reef like, area."

“The addictive patterns often lead the affected to, in the case of seaside residents, spend long amounts of time hoovering over and around the reef tank, and increasing the amount of water-air exchange.” The compounds seem to be comming directly from the invertibrates, but from which ones and to what degree he is not sure, but he feels hard corals seem to be the most active. He says this partially accounts for the great use in wet/dry filters and foam fractionators, high intensity lights, and hood fans. For similar reasons, he sees decreased interest in UV sterilizers, ozone use and undergravel filters, which he theorizes, must break down or trap these strange compounds.

After a short break, Dr. Hemicara reports, the team will be heading back into the lab. They expect more results very soon. Reef Traders’ Outpost is also very pleased to announce that the doctor has consented to an interview and we will be bringing you this exclusive news!