Dendrophyllia Gracilis, scientifically known as Cladopsammia gracilis, is a unique coral species that thrives in the splash zone above the tidal influence, demonstrating an exceptional ability to withstand the harsh conditions of this marine environment.
Description & Characteristics
Cladopsammia gracilis stands out with its distinctive morphology. Its corallites, the individual, cup-shaped units that compose the coral colony, possess a characteristically elongated shape and feature prominent radial ridges. These corallites are often found clustered together, forming a dense, interconnected network that contributes to the overall resilience of the coral colony.
Habitat and Occurrence
Cladopsammia gracilis exhibits a remarkable adaptability to its environment. It primarily inhabits the Supratidal (Supralitoral), spray water area (splash water area) above the tidal influence where the influence of the sea clearly outweighs that of the land. This unique habitat exposes the coral to significant fluctuations in salinity and temperature, highlighting its ability to withstand challenging conditions.
Taxonomy
Cladopsammia gracilis belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, and Family: Dendrophylliidae. This classification places it within a diverse group of corals characterized by their six-fold symmetry and hard, calcium carbonate skeletons.
Feeding
Unlike many other coral species, Cladopsammia gracilis is azooxanthellate, meaning it does not have symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living within its tissues. This adaptation means Cladopsammia gracilis relies entirely on capturing zooplankton, small marine organisms, as its food source. This nonphotosynthetic feeding strategy allows it to thrive in the splash zone, where light availability is often limited.
Image References