Meandrina brasiliensis is a species of stony coral that is commonly found in the Western Atlantic Ocean. This coral is a fascinating and important part of the marine ecosystem, contributing to the biodiversity and health of coral reefs.
Description & Characteristics
Meandrina brasiliensis is characterized by its distinctive grooved or meandering surface, giving it a brain-like appearance. The coral’s polyps are arranged in a series of interconnected valleys, forming a complex network of ridges and grooves. The coral’s color can vary, ranging from brown, tan, to pale yellow. It is a massive coral, capable of reaching up to 1 meter in diameter and 2 meters in height.
Habitat and Occurrence
Meandrina brasiliensis is typically found in shallow, clear, and warm waters, inhabiting rocky substrates and coral reefs. It can be found in depths ranging from 0 to 30 meters, often in the intertidal zone and the subtidal zone. This species is commonly found in the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the western Atlantic Ocean. Its distribution aligns with the Tropical and Subtropical marine zones, contributing to the diverse communities in these regions.
Taxonomy
Meandrina brasiliensis belongs to the family Meandrinidae, which is part of the order Scleractinia, known for its hard corals. These corals fall under the Class Hexacorallia, a class that includes various corals with a hexamerous radial symmetry.
Feeding
Like most stony corals, Meandrina brasiliensis is a suspension feeder. They capture tiny organisms, such as plankton, by extending their tentacles, which are equipped with stinging cells called nematocysts. The tentacles paralyze the prey, which is then brought to the mouth for digestion.
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