Acropora monticulosa, commonly known as Stony Corals, is a species of hard coral found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. These corals play a crucial role in the health and diversity of reef ecosystems, providing habitat and shelter for a wide array of marine life.
Description & Characteristics
Acropora monticulosa exhibits a distinctive branching growth form, with numerous, upright branches that can reach lengths of up to a meter. These branches are typically cylindrical and have a rough, textured surface. The coral colonies are often characterized by a bright, vibrant color, ranging from shades of green and brown to pink and yellow.
Habitat and Occurrence
Acropora monticulosa is a common inhabitant of shallow, subtidal reef environments in the Indo-Pacific region. They are found in marine zones classified as subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and the deep zone of the oceans, extending from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. This makes them a prominent presence in the neritic zone, a key region for marine biodiversity.
Taxonomy
Acropora monticulosa belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, Order: Scleractinia, and Family: Acroporidae. This classification places it among the stony corals, known for their hard, calcium carbonate skeletons that form the foundation of coral reefs.
Feeding
Like many other coral species, Acropora monticulosa relies on a symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae. These algae reside within the coral’s tissues and provide the coral with a significant portion of its food through photosynthesis. The coral, in turn, provides the zooxanthellae with a protected environment and access to nutrients. Acropora monticulosa also supplements its diet by capturing and consuming plankton from the surrounding water column.
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