siRNA Supplemental Data (IPAM, qPCR, Mortality)

This research investigated the use of RNA interference (RNAi) as a functional genomics tool in adult fragments of the critically endangered Caribbean coral Acropora cervicornis. Short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) were used to target the stress-response gene Heat Shock Protein 16.2 (HSP16.2) across coral genotypes with known differences in thermal tolerance. While gene knockdown was not achieved under the tested conditions, the study revealed strong genotype-driven differences in gene expression and physiological responses, reinforcing the role of host genotype in coral thermotolerance. These findings highlight both the challenges and potential of applying reverse-genetics approaches in adult corals and provide guidance for future efforts to link gene function to coral resilience under thermal stress.