Klunzinger’s Mushroom Coral, scientifically known as Danafungia horrida, is a striking coral species renowned for its unique morphology and widespread distribution. This coral exhibits a fascinating symbiotic relationship with algae, contributing to the vibrant ecosystems it inhabits.
Description & Characteristics
Klunzinger’s Mushroom Coral, Danafungia horrida, is characterized by its distinctive mushroom-like shape. The coral’s upper surface, known as the “cap,” is flat and broad, often displaying a corrugated texture. Its underside, or “stipe,” is a sturdy, cylindrical stalk that anchors the coral to the substrate. The polyps, the individual feeding units of the coral, are typically small and densely packed, giving the coral’s surface a rough, textured appearance. The coloration of Klunzinger’s Mushroom Coral can vary greatly, ranging from pale browns and greens to vibrant yellows and oranges.
Habitat and Occurrence
Klunzinger’s Mushroom Coral, Danafungia horrida, is a common sight in various marine environments. It thrives in shallow, sunlit waters, making it a prominent resident of coral reefs, lagoons, and reef slopes. Its habitat preference extends to the subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones of the oceans, typically found from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth, defining it as a neritic species.
Taxonomy
Klunzinger’s Mushroom Coral, Danafungia horrida, belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, which encompasses a diverse group of corals characterized by their six-sided symmetry. It further falls under the Order: Scleractinia, a group known for their hard, stony skeletons. Finally, this coral species is classified within the Family: Fungiidae, a family of mushroom corals distinguished by their solitary and free-living nature.
Feeding
Klunzinger’s Mushroom Coral, Danafungia horrida, exhibits a fascinating feeding strategy, relying on a combination of sources for sustenance. The coral’s polyps capture tiny plankton drifting through the water, contributing to their nutritional intake. Moreover, the coral hosts a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, microscopic algae residing within the coral tissues. These algae photosynthesize, providing the coral with a significant portion of its energy requirements. The coral, in return, provides the algae with a safe habitat and access to essential nutrients. This symbiotic association allows the coral to thrive in sunlit environments, where zooxanthellae can flourish.
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