Stony Coral – Acropora abrotanoides is a species of coral found in the Indo-Pacific region. It is a branching coral with a distinctive growth form that adds to the vibrant biodiversity of coral reefs.
Description & Characteristics
Acropora abrotanoides is a branching coral characterized by its delicate, intricate branches. The coral colonies are often large and can reach considerable sizes. Like many corals, it derives its color from symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae, which live within the coral’s tissues. The color of Acropora abrotanoides can range from brown to green and even yellow depending on the specific strain and environmental conditions.
Habitat and Occurrence
Acropora abrotanoides thrives in subtidal, sublittoral, and infralittoral zones of the ocean, extending to the shelf edge at around 200 meters depth. It is a neritic species, meaning it inhabits the shallow waters above the continental shelf. These zones are often characterized by the presence of sunlight, which is crucial for the photosynthetic activity of the zooxanthellae.
Taxonomy
The Stony Coral – Acropora abrotanoides belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, and Family: Acroporidae. These classifications place Acropora abrotanoides within a large and diverse group of corals known for their hard, calcium carbonate skeletons.
Feeding
Like most corals, Acropora abrotanoides is heterotrophic, meaning it obtains nutrients from external sources. It relies on a combination of two feeding strategies:
1. Zooxanthellae: These symbiotic algae live within the coral’s tissues and provide the coral with energy through photosynthesis. The zooxanthellae need sunlight to perform photosynthesis, which is why Acropora abrotanoides is found in shallow, sunlit waters.
2. Plankton: Acropora abrotanoides also captures and consumes plankton, tiny organisms that drift in the water column. This provides additional nutrients for the coral.
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