Leptoseris scabra, commonly known as Rough Plate Coral, is a species of stony coral that is found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It is a relatively common coral, and is easily recognizable by its rough, textured surface. This coral is an important part of the reef ecosystem, providing habitat for a variety of marine life.
Description & Characteristics
Leptoseris scabra is a colonial coral that forms flat, plate-like colonies. These colonies can grow to be quite large, with some individuals reaching a maximum size of up to 1 meter in diameter. The surface of the colony is covered in small, raised bumps, which give the coral its rough texture. The coral is typically a pale brown or gray color, but can also be found in shades of green and orange. The polyps, which are the individual animals that make up the colony, are small and have six tentacles. These tentacles are used to capture food, which is then transported to the polyp’s mouth.
Habitat and Occurrence
Leptoseris scabra is found in a variety of habitats, including shallow reefs, lagoons, and seaward slopes. This coral prefers clear, well-lit waters, and is typically found in depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters. Leptoseris scabra occurs in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Pacific Ocean. Its presence is particularly notable in marine zones such as the Coral Triangle, which boasts a high biodiversity of marine life.
Taxonomy
The species Leptoseris scabra belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, and Family: Agariciidae. The Hexacorallia class includes corals, sea anemones, and other related organisms that possess radial symmetry and six or multiples of six tentacles. The Scleractinia order, also known as stony corals, is characterized by their hard, calcium carbonate skeletons. The family Agariciidae contains a diverse group of stony corals that are known for their plate-like or encrusting forms, and Leptoseris scabra exemplifies this characteristic with its distinct flat colonies.
Feeding
Leptoseris scabra, like many other stony corals, has a symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae known as zooxanthellae. These algae reside within the coral’s tissues and provide their host with food through photosynthesis. In addition to this symbiotic source, Leptoseris scabra also captures and consumes plankton, including phytoplankton and zooplankton, using its tentacles.
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