Acropora clathrata, commonly known as Stony Coral, is a species of coral that is widely distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region. It is a branching coral that can grow to be quite large, and is an important part of the reef ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Acropora clathrata is a branching coral that can grow up to 1 meter in height. Its branches are typically slender and have a distinct lattice-like structure. The coral is typically a pale brown or gray color, but can also be yellow or green. Like most corals, Acropora clathrata is composed of a hard, calcium carbonate skeleton that is covered by a thin layer of living tissue. This tissue contains tiny, stinging polyps that are responsible for capturing food and defending the coral from predators.
Habitat and Occurrence
Acropora clathrata is found in a variety of habitats, including shallow reefs, lagoons, and seaward reefs. It is a common sight in the neritic zone, which encompasses the shallow waters of the continental shelf. Acropora clathrata is a significant component of coral reefs, contributing to their structural complexity and providing habitat for a wide range of marine organisms. This coral species thrives in the subtidal, sublittoral, and infralittoral zones, typically from the lower limit of the intertidal zone down to depths of around 200 meters.
Taxonomy
Acropora clathrata is classified within the animal kingdom, belonging to the phylum Cnidaria. It is part of the class Hexacorallia, which encompasses corals, sea anemones, and other related organisms. Within this class, Acropora clathrata belongs to the order Scleractinia, which includes stony corals. Finally, it is a member of the family Acroporidae, a diverse group of branching corals that are known for their rapid growth and significant role in reef ecosystems.
Feeding
Acropora clathrata feeds on a combination of plankton and zooxanthellae. Plankton, which are tiny organisms that drift in the water, are captured by the coral’s polyps. The coral also hosts zooxanthellae, microscopic algae that live within its tissues. These algae provide the coral with food through photosynthesis, a process that converts sunlight into energy. This symbiotic relationship between the coral and the zooxanthellae is essential for the survival of both organisms.
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