Pavona clavus is a marine cnidarian species of stony coral characterized by its leaf-like growth pattern and complex calcium carbonate skeletal structure, typically found in tropical reef ecosystems.
Image Gallery
ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Predominantly inhabits shallow tropical and subtropical coral reef environments in the Indo-Pacific region, typically at depths between 1-30 meters, with preference for areas with moderate water currents and stable substrate conditions.
Ecological Role
Critical component of coral reef ecosystems, providing habitat and structural complexity for numerous marine organisms, contributing to biodiversity, coastal protection, and serving as a bioindicator of marine environmental health.
Morphology
SKIN COATThin layer of living tissue covering calcium carbonate skeleton, containing symbiotic zooxanthellae algae
HEAD SENSORYPolyps embedded within calcium carbonate skeleton, with tentacular structures for capturing marine plankton and small organisms
BODY STRUCTURECalcified colonial coral with leaf-like, flattened growth pattern, forming intricate plate-like structures with irregular edges and varying coloration from light tan to brown
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: NPS Photo - Bryan Harry
