Platygyra platygyra

Platygyra platygyra, commonly known as the Platygyra coral, is a species of stony coral belonging to the family Merulinidae. This coral is known for its distinctive, massive, and often convoluted growth form. It is a crucial component of coral reefs, playing a vital role in maintaining the health and diversity of these ecosystems.

Description & Characteristics

Platygyra platygyra typically forms large, dome-shaped colonies that can reach a significant size, often exceeding one meter in diameter. The coral polyps, which are the individual animals that make up the colony, are relatively large and possess a distinctive, flattened appearance. The coral’s surface is usually covered in numerous, interconnected ridges and grooves that give it a convoluted and complex texture. The color of Platygyra platygyra can vary widely, ranging from brown and gray to green and yellow, often with patches of orange or red.

Habitat and Occurrence

Platygyra platygyra is a common inhabitant of shallow, tropical waters. It prefers environments with strong wave action and high water clarity. This species typically occurs in the intertidal zone and in shallow reef flats, where it can withstand periodic exposure to air. Platygyra platygyra is a dominant coral species in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea to the eastern Pacific Ocean. It is particularly prevalent in the reefs of the Indian Ocean, the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, and the coral triangle, a region known for its exceptional marine biodiversity.

Taxonomy

Platygyra platygyra belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, and Family: Merulinidae. This classification reflects its taxonomic relationships with other coral species. It is a member of the subclass Hexacorallia, which encompasses a wide range of coral species characterized by their six-fold radial symmetry. Within this subclass, it belongs to the Order Scleractinia, a group known for their hard, calcareous skeletons, and the Family Merulinidae, a family of stony corals known for their massive, often convoluted growth forms.

Feeding

Platygyra platygyra is a heterotrophic organism, meaning it obtains its nutrition from external sources. Its primary food source is plankton, which it captures with its tentacles. Platygyra platygyra also benefits from a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, microscopic algae that reside within its tissues. These algae photosynthesize and provide the coral with a significant portion of its energy requirements, contributing to its ability to thrive in nutrient-poor waters. This symbiotic relationship is crucial for the survival and growth of many coral species, including Platygyra platygyra.