The Stony Coral – Coelastrea palauensis is a captivating coral species that thrives in the warm, tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This stony coral, with its intricate structure and vibrant colors, plays a crucial role in the delicate balance of coral reef ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Coelastrea palauensis boasts a distinctive morphology, characterized by its massive, dome-shaped colonies. These colonies can reach impressive sizes, with some individuals growing to over a meter in diameter. The coral’s surface is adorned with numerous, small, round corallites, giving it a textured and rugged appearance. The color of Coelastrea palauensis can vary considerably, ranging from shades of brown and gray to vibrant greens and yellows, adding a splash of color to the underwater landscape.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Stony Coral – Coelastrea palauensis is a quintessential resident of coral reefs, typically found in shallow, protected lagoons and reef slopes. This species prefers environments with strong water circulation and abundant sunlight, making it a common sight in the clear, tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Coelastrea palauensis thrives in depths ranging from the intertidal zone down to approximately 30 meters, encompassing the epipelagic and mesopelagic zones. These coral reefs are critical habitats for a diverse array of marine life, providing shelter, food, and breeding grounds for countless species.
Taxonomy
The species Coelastrea palauensis belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, and Family: Merulinidae. The Hexacorallia class includes corals with six or multiples of six tentacles, while the Scleractinia order encompasses stony corals that secrete a hard, calcium carbonate skeleton. The Merulinidae family is further characterized by its distinctive colony morphology and corallites.
Feeding
Coelastrea palauensis employs a unique feeding strategy, relying on a symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae known as zooxanthellae. These algae reside within the coral’s tissues, providing the coral with essential nutrients through photosynthesis. In addition to this symbiotic relationship, Coelastrea palauensis also feeds on plankton, microscopic organisms that drift in the water column. This dual feeding mechanism allows the coral to thrive in its nutrient-rich environment.
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