Acropora robusta, commonly known as Stony Corals, is a species of coral found in a variety of marine environments. This species is known for its distinctive characteristics and plays a crucial role in the health of the coral reef ecosystems it inhabits.
Description & Characteristics
Acropora robusta exhibits a branching growth form, with its colonies typically reaching a maximum size of several feet in length. The branches are generally thick and robust, contributing to the species’ common name. The coral polyps, the individual animals that make up the colony, are small and numerous, giving the colony a rough, textured appearance.
Habitat and Occurrence
Acropora robusta is a widespread species, found in various marine zones. Its distribution encompasses the subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zone of the oceans, extending from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at approximately 200 meters water depth. These regions are also known as neritic zones, highlighting the presence of Acropora robusta in diverse marine environments.
Taxonomy
Acropora robusta belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, which includes a wide array of corals. This class is further categorized into the Order: Scleractinia, a group known for its hard, calcium carbonate skeletons. Finally, Acropora robusta is part of the Family: Acroporidae, a family characterized by its branching coral forms.
Feeding
Acropora robusta feeds primarily on plankton, which are microscopic organisms that drift in the water. These corals also harbor symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae within their tissues. These algae provide the coral with nutrients through photosynthesis, a process that requires sunlight. The combination of plankton capture and symbiotic algae allows Acropora robusta to thrive in its diverse habitats.
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