The Stony Coral, also known as Cyphastrea serailia, is a species of stony coral found in tropical and subtropical waters. This coral is commonly found in shallow, reef environments, contributing significantly to the diversity and health of these marine ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
Cyphastrea serailia is characterized by its distinct colony form, often appearing as rounded, massive structures or encrusting formations. The coral’s polyps are small and have a distinct, slightly raised appearance. Their color can vary widely, ranging from shades of brown, orange, yellow, and even green, adding to the vibrant tapestry of coral reefs. This species can grow to a maximum size of around 20 cm in diameter, contributing to the intricate and diverse landscapes of the coral reef habitats.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Stony Coral, Cyphastrea serailia, is a common inhabitant of shallow, reef environments. It thrives in tropical and subtropical waters, typically found in areas with good water circulation and moderate wave action. This species is often found at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters, inhabiting both the inner and outer reef zones. Cyphastrea serailia can be encountered in various marine zones, including the intertidal zone, the reef flat, and the reef slope. This adaptability allows it to occupy a wide range of environments within the coral reef ecosystem.
Taxonomy
The species Cyphastrea serailia belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, and Family: Merulinidae. This classification places it within a group of corals that share similar characteristics and evolutionary relationships. The Stony Coral is a member of a diverse and ecologically important group of marine invertebrates, playing a significant role in the structure and function of coral reef ecosystems.
Feeding
Like many other stony corals, Cyphastrea serailia exhibits a mixotrophic feeding strategy. This means it obtains nutrients from both autotrophic and heterotrophic sources. The coral houses symbiotic zooxanthellae within its tissues, which provide a significant portion of its food through photosynthesis. These microscopic algae use sunlight to produce organic compounds, which are then shared with the coral. Additionally, Cyphastrea serailia also feeds heterotrophically, capturing and consuming various forms of plankton, including phytoplankton, zooplankton, and small particles of organic matter that drift in the water column. This combination of feeding strategies allows Cyphastrea serailia to thrive in a variety of reef environments.
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