Goniastrea pectinata is a marine colonial scleractinian coral species found in tropical reef ecosystems, characterized by its robust and compact skeletal structure with distinctive pectinate (comb-like) corallite patterns.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Shallow tropical marine environments, primarily in the Indo-Pacific region, typically inhabiting coral reefs at depths between 1-30 meters, preferring areas with moderate water turbulence and stable temperatures around 24-29°C.
Ecological Role
Critical reef-building species that provides complex habitat structure for marine biodiversity, contributes to coastal protection, and serves as a significant component of coral reef ecosystem resilience and carbon sequestration.
Morphology
SKIN COATProtective external tissue layer covering calcium carbonate skeleton, capable of secreting mucus for defense and nutrient absorption
LIMBS WINGSIndividual polyps have tentacles used for prey capture and nutrient acquisition
HEAD SENSORYPolyps possess basic chemoreceptors and light-sensitive tissues for environmental interaction
BODY STRUCTUREColonial coral with compact, encrusting to massive growth form, composed of interconnected polyps forming a robust calcium carbonate skeleton with intricate corallite structures
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Larry Basch/National Parks Service
