Stony Coral – _Mussismilia harttii_ is a species of colonial stony coral found in the western Atlantic Ocean. Its unique characteristics and ecological significance make it an interesting subject of study for marine biologists and coral enthusiasts alike.
Description & Characteristics
_Mussismilia harttii_ is characterized by its robust, massive colonies that can reach up to 1 meter in diameter. The coral polyps, the individual animals that make up the colony, are small and have six tentacles. The coral’s skeleton is made up of calcium carbonate, which gives it its stony texture. _Mussismilia harttii_ displays a variety of colors, including brown, yellow, and orange. Its surface is often covered in a layer of algae, which contributes to its overall appearance. The colonies of _Mussismilia harttii_ typically grow in clusters or mounds, creating complex reef structures that provide habitat for a wide range of marine organisms.
Habitat and Occurrence
_Mussismilia harttii_ is commonly found in the neritic zone, encompassing the Subtidal, sublittoral, and infralittoral zones of the ocean. This zone extends from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at approximately 200 meters depth. The coral thrives in clear, warm waters with moderate currents and good light penetration. It prefers rocky substrates and is often found in association with other coral species. The geographic distribution of _Mussismilia harttii_ includes the western Atlantic Ocean, specifically the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.
Taxonomy
_Mussismilia harttii_ belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, which includes corals with six-fold symmetry in their body plan. It further falls under the Order: Scleractinia, containing stony corals that secrete a hard calcium carbonate skeleton. Finally, it is classified under the Family: Faviidae, known for their dome-shaped or massive coral colonies.
Feeding
_Mussismilia harttii_ feeds on a combination of plankton and zooxanthellae, symbiotic algae that live within its tissues. It captures plankton using its tentacles, which are covered in stinging cells called nematocysts. The zooxanthellae, in turn, provide the coral with a source of energy through photosynthesis. This symbiotic relationship allows _Mussismilia harttii_ to thrive in nutrient-poor environments, where plankton is scarce.
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