Astroides calycularis, commonly known as Star Coral, is a captivating species of stony coral found in the Mediterranean Sea and the eastern Atlantic Ocean. This coral exhibits a unique and striking appearance, characterized by its star-shaped polyps and vibrant coloration, making it a notable resident of the underwater world.
Description & Characteristics
Star Coral, or Astroides calycularis, is a colonial coral that forms clusters of polyps, each measuring up to 1 centimeter in diameter. These polyps possess six or more tentacles that radiate outward, giving them the distinctive star-shaped appearance. The coral’s color can vary greatly, ranging from bright orange and red to yellow and even white. The polyps are densely packed together, creating a visually appealing and textured surface. A single colony of Astroides calycularis can reach a maximum size of 20 centimeters in diameter.
Habitat and Occurrence
Star Coral is a common sight in the Mediterranean Sea, particularly in the western basin. It prefers rocky substrates in shallow waters, typically inhabiting depths ranging from 1 to 50 meters. Astroides calycularis is often found in areas with strong currents, which help to deliver food and oxygen to the coral polyps. The species is primarily confined to the infralittoral zone, a marine ecosystem characterized by a significant presence of sunlight. Within this zone, it may be encountered in rocky reefs, caves, and overhangs, where it thrives in the presence of suitable substrates.
Taxonomy
The species Astroides calycularis belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, and Family: Dendrophylliidae. This classification places it within the group of stony corals, which are characterized by their hard, calcium carbonate skeletons. The family Dendrophylliidae includes a diverse range of corals, often distinguished by their unique polyp structures and growth forms.
Feeding
Astroides calycularis is an azooxanthellate coral, meaning it does not host symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) within its tissues. This distinguishes it from many other coral species that rely on their algal symbionts for energy production. As a result, Astroides calycularis is a nonphotosynthetic species and must actively obtain its food. It feeds primarily as a filter feeder, capturing plankton from the water column using its tentacles. The diet of Star Coral includes zooplankton such as copepods and amphipods, which it captures as they drift by.
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