Star Coral – Madracis pharensis is a fascinating species of coral found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This coral boasts unique characteristics that distinguish it from its counterparts, making it an intriguing subject for marine biologists and enthusiasts alike.
Description & Characteristics
The Star Coral, also known by its scientific name Madracis pharensis, is a small, branching coral that typically grows to a maximum size of 10 centimeters in diameter. It is characterized by its star-shaped polyps, which are the individual organisms that make up the coral colony. The polyps of Madracis pharensis are arranged in clusters, and their tentacles have a distinctive, spiky appearance. This coral’s skeletal structure, known as the corallum, is also distinctive, featuring a branching pattern with rounded, bulbous tips. The color of Star Coral can range from brown to tan to white, and it often features a unique, mottled appearance.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Star Coral, Madracis pharensis, thrives in a variety of habitats, including shallow reefs, rocky outcrops, and seagrass beds. It is commonly found in depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. This species prefers areas with moderate wave action and clear water conditions. Madracis pharensis is a common inhabitant of the Caribbean Sea and the western Atlantic Ocean, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Bahamas. The Star Coral is considered a significant component of these marine zones, contributing to the overall biodiversity and ecosystem health of these regions.
Taxonomy
The species Madracis pharensis belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, and Family: Pocilloporidae. Hexacorallia, also known as the Zoantharia, is a large class of corals that includes the majority of the world’s coral species. Scleractinia is an order within Hexacorallia that encompasses the stony corals, which are characterized by their hard, calcium carbonate skeletons. The Pocilloporidae family contains a variety of branching and encrusting corals, known for their rapid growth rates and ability to withstand turbulent conditions.
Feeding
Star Coral, Madracis pharensis, exhibits a unique feeding strategy, combining both autotrophic and heterotrophic methods. It is classified as apozooxanthellate, meaning it does not rely solely on zooxanthellae, the symbiotic algae that provide food for many other coral species. While Madracis pharensis can obtain nutrients from zooxanthellae through photosynthesis, it also actively captures and consumes plankton, small organisms that drift in the water column. This dual feeding strategy allows Star Coral to thrive in a variety of environments, including those with limited sunlight availability.
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