Paragoniastrea russelli, commonly known as Stony Coral, is a species of stony coral found in tropical and subtropical waters. This coral is a vital part of the marine ecosystem, contributing to the health and biodiversity of coral reefs.
Description & Characteristics
Paragoniastrea russelli exhibits a characteristically massive, rounded, or lobate growth form, with a robust, solid skeleton. Its surface is typically covered in numerous corallites, the individual cup-like structures that house the polyps. The corallites are typically small and closely spaced, giving the coral a granular appearance. Paragoniastrea russelli can reach significant sizes, with colonies often exceeding several meters in diameter.
Habitat and Occurrence
Paragoniastrea russelli is a common inhabitant of shallow reef environments, primarily found in the Indo-Pacific region. This stony coral thrives in the photic zone, the region of the ocean where sufficient sunlight penetrates. Paragoniastrea russelli is most frequently encountered at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters, although it can be found in even deeper waters, depending on the specific location.
Taxonomy
Paragoniastrea russelli is classified within the phylum Cnidaria, which encompasses a wide range of marine invertebrates. Within this phylum, it belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, a group characterized by polyps with six-fold symmetry. The species further belongs to the Order: Scleractinia, the stony corals, known for their hard, calcium carbonate skeletons. Finally, Paragoniastrea russelli is categorized within the Family: Merulinidae, which includes a diverse array of coral species commonly found in tropical waters.
Feeding
Paragoniastrea russelli exhibits a unique dual feeding strategy. It relies on a symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, which reside within the coral’s tissues. These algae photosynthesize, providing the coral with a significant portion of its energy requirements. Additionally, Paragoniastrea russelli feeds on plankton, small organisms that drift in the water column. This combination of autotrophic (zooxanthellae) and heterotrophic (plankton) feeding strategies allows Paragoniastrea russelli to thrive in a range of conditions.
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