A marine colonial coral species found in Caribbean coral reef ecosystems, characterized by thin, lettuce-like skeletal formations with radial growth patterns.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical marine environments, typically found in Caribbean coral reef systems at depths between 1-30 meters, preferring moderate wave action and clear waters with stable temperatures between 24-29°C
Ecological Role
Provides critical reef structure, offers habitat and shelter for numerous marine invertebrates and small fish species, contributes to marine biodiversity and calcium carbonate reef formation
Morphology
SKIN COATSoft coral tissue covering hard calcium carbonate skeleton, typically light brown to greenish-gray coloration
LIMBS WINGSNo distinct limbs; growth occurs through colonial expansion of calcified skeletal structure
HEAD SENSORYPolyps distributed across skeletal surface with tentacular structures for capturing planktonic prey
BODY STRUCTUREThin, fan-like calcium carbonate skeleton with ruffled, leaf-like margins, typically 10-25 cm in diameter, displaying intricate radial growth patterns
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: U.S. Geological Survey
