The Black Tube Coral, Black Sun Coral – Tubastraea micranthus is a fascinating and unusual coral species known for its striking black coloration and distinctive tubular structure. Unlike many other corals, Tubastraea micranthus is azooxanthellate, meaning it doesn’t rely on symbiotic algae for energy. This makes it unique among corals as it requires a different method of feeding.
Description & Characteristics
Tubastraea micranthus features a distinctive cylindrical shape, with individual polyps growing in clusters. Each polyp has a central mouth surrounded by a ring of tentacles. The coral’s surface is typically covered in a layer of black or dark brown tissue, giving it its characteristic appearance. It can reach a maximum size of a few inches in diameter and is known to form colonies that can cover extensive areas.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Black Tube Coral, Black Sun Coral – Tubastraea micranthus is found in a variety of marine environments, particularly in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific. This coral prefers shallow water habitats, typically found in depths ranging from a few meters to around 30 meters. It is commonly encountered in areas with strong currents, where it attaches itself to rocks, coral reefs, and even shipwrecks.
Taxonomy
The species Tubastraea micranthus is classified within the phylum Cnidaria, which encompasses a wide array of aquatic invertebrates. This particular species belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, which includes corals, sea anemones, and other related organisms. Within this class, it is further categorized into the Order: Scleractinia, which comprises stony corals. Finally, Tubastraea micranthus is a member of the Family: Dendrophylliidae, a family that includes a variety of coral species known for their branching or tree-like structures.
Feeding
As an azooxanthellate coral, Tubastraea micranthus relies entirely on capturing food particles from the surrounding water. Its diet consists primarily of zooplankton, including organisms such as brine shrimps, cyclops, mysis, and plankton. It also feeds on smaller invertebrates like lobster eggs and particulate matter known as “dust food.” This unique feeding strategy allows Tubastraea micranthus to thrive in environments where sunlight is limited, unlike many other coral species that rely on symbiotic algae for sustenance.
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