Dipsastraea pallida is a colonial stony coral species belonging to the Merulinidae family, characterized by its robust skeletal structure and pale coloration found in tropical marine environments.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Typically inhabits shallow coral reef ecosystems in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from 1-30 meters depth, preferring warm waters with temperatures between 24-29°C and moderate to high light conditions.
Ecological Role
Provides critical marine habitat and structural complexity for reef ecosystems, supports biodiversity, contributes to coastal protection, and plays a significant role in marine calcium carbonate formation.
Morphology
SKIN COATHard calcium carbonate exoskeleton with pale cream to light brown coloration
LIMBS WINGSNot applicable for coral species
HEAD SENSORYIndividual polyps contain tentacles with cnidocytes for prey capture and defense
BODY STRUCTURECalcified colonial structure with clustered polyps, forming irregular hemispherical or massive colonies up to 1 meter in diameter, with distinct knob-like protrusions
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: NPS - Larry Basch
