Stony Coral – Pocillopora elegans

Pocillopora elegans, commonly known as Stony Coral, is a species of coral found in the Indo-Pacific region. This coral species is known for its distinctive branching structure and its ability to thrive in a variety of environments.

Description & Characteristics

Pocillopora elegans is a colonial coral, meaning it consists of numerous individual polyps that live together in a colony. The colonies of this species are characterized by their branching structure, forming intricate patterns with numerous branches. The branches are typically thick and robust, with a rough surface. This species can reach a maximum size of up to 50 cm in diameter, with a maximum depth range of 20 m.

Habitat and Occurrence

Pocillopora elegans is a resilient species, capable of inhabiting a wide range of environments. It commonly occurs in the intertidal zone, which is the area between the high and low tide lines. This zone is characterized by the alternation of low and high tides, and Pocillopora elegans is well-adapted to these fluctuating conditions. The species can also be found in shallow reef environments, often growing in areas with strong wave action.

Taxonomy

Pocillopora elegans belongs to the family Pocilloporidae, which is part of the Order Scleractinia. This order includes all hard corals, and it is characterized by the presence of a hard skeleton made of calcium carbonate. The species is further classified within the Class Anthozoa, which encompasses all corals, sea anemones, and their relatives.

Feeding

Pocillopora elegans is a heterotrophic organism, meaning it obtains its nutrition from other organisms. It feeds primarily on plankton, small organisms that drift in the water column. Additionally, Pocillopora elegans hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae, single-celled algae that live within the coral’s tissues. These zooxanthellae provide the coral with energy through photosynthesis, a process that requires sunlight. This symbiotic relationship between the coral and the zooxanthellae is crucial for the coral’s survival and growth.