TaxonHub
Branching staghorn coral

Branching staghorn coral

Acropora nasuta

Acropora nasuta is a marine coral species characterized by its branching morphology, belonging to the family Acroporidae. It is a crucial reef-building species found in tropical and subtropical marine environments.

Image Gallery

Branching staghorn coral
Branching staghorn coral
Branching staghorn coral
Branching staghorn coral
Branching staghorn coral
ADSENSE SLOT

Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Primarily found in Indo-Pacific coral reef systems, typically at depths between 1-30 meters, preferring clear, warm waters with temperatures ranging from 23-29°C

Ecological Role

Critical component of coral reef ecosystems, providing habitat and structural complexity for numerous marine species, contributing to marine biodiversity and coastal protection

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Calcium carbonate exoskeleton with thin, translucent tissue layer covering skeletal structure
  • LIMBS WINGS Branches radiate outward with variable angles, creating intricate three-dimensional structures
  • HEAD SENSORY Polyps distributed across branch surfaces, capable of basic chemical and tactile sensing
  • BODY STRUCTURE Branching, arborescent colony structure with complex, interconnected branches, typically 10-50 cm in height
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: NPS photo - Eva DiDonato. Identified by Charles Birkeland
ADSENSE VERTICAL

Related Species in Acroporidae