Knob Coral (Favites rotundata) is a species of stony coral that is commonly found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Known for its distinctive knobby appearance, this coral plays a vital role in the health and diversity of coral reefs.
Description & Characteristics
Favites rotundata, also known as the Knob Coral, is characterized by its rounded, knobby corallites (individual coral polyps) that are arranged in a somewhat irregular pattern. These corallites can vary in size, with some reaching a diameter of up to 2 centimeters. The coral’s surface is typically a dull brown or gray color, but it can also exhibit shades of green, orange, or yellow. The coral colonies can grow to impressive sizes, reaching up to several meters in diameter.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Knob Coral (Favites rotundata) is a widespread species, occurring throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Its range extends from the Red Sea and East Africa in the west, eastward across the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. This species is typically found in shallow reef environments, particularly in areas with strong wave action. It is commonly found in the intertidal zone and can tolerate a wide range of depths, from the surface to about 30 meters.
Taxonomy
The species Favites rotundata belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, and Family: Merulinidae. The Hexacorallia Class includes corals, anemones, and jellyfish, all characterized by six-fold symmetry. The Order Scleractinia encompasses stony corals, which possess a hard, calcium carbonate skeleton. The Family Merulinidae is a diverse group of stony corals known for their robust and often knobby structures.
Feeding
Favites rotundata is a heterotrophic organism, meaning it obtains its nutrition from other organisms. It feeds on a variety of plankton, including zooplankton and phytoplankton. This coral also relies on a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae called zooxanthellae that live within its tissues. These algae provide the coral with a significant portion of its energy through the process of photosynthesis, while the coral provides the algae with a protected environment and nutrients.
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