Cnidarian bleaching research often focuses on the effects on a cnidarian's physiological health and fitness, whilst little focus has been towards the impacts of these events on their venom ecology. Given the importance of a cnidarian's venom to their survival and the increasing threat of bleaching events, it is important to understand the effects that this threat may have on this important aspect of their ecology as it may have unforeseen impacts on their ability to catch prey and defend themselves. This review aims to explore evidence that suggests that bleaching may impact on each of the key aspects of a cnidarians' venom ecology: cnidae, venom composition, and venom toxicity. Additionally, the resulting energy deficit, compensatory heterotrophic feeding, and increased defensive measures have been highlighted as possible ecological factors driving these changes. Suggestions are also made to guide the success of research in this field into the future, specifically in regards to selecting a study organism, the importance of accurate symbiont and cnidae identification, use of appropriate bleaching methods, determination of bleaching, and animal handling. Ultimately, this review highlights a significant and important gap in our knowledge into how cnidarians are, and will, continue to be impacted by bleaching stress.

Ricordea yuma (Ricordeidae WATZL, 1922) is a tropical corallimorpharian found throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Individuals of this species are often found in bright colours making them popularly sought-after within the marine ornamental trade. Despite their popularity in marine aquaria, little is known about the sexual reproductive biology of this species and therefore it's capacity to maintain and renew genetically diverse populations in the wild. This note provides evidence that this species is gonochoric and engages in broadcast spawning during the austral summer. While further research is required to discern the size and/or age of sexual maturity, duration of the gametogenic cycle, and the precise periodicity of spawning, the information provided here is an important first in step elucidating the sexual reproductive biology of this species. Understanding the general biology of R. yuma will allow for a better understanding of this species’ life history, and enhance the monitoring and management of populations.