Agariciidae
Agariciidae is a family of stony corals in the order Scleractinia. They are commonly known as “plate corals” due to their distinctive flattened, plate-like colonies. These corals are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, primarily in shallow reefs and lagoons.
Characteristics
Members of the Agariciidae family exhibit several characteristic features:
- Flattened Colonies: Their colonies are typically flat, spreading horizontally over the substrate. This shape provides a large surface area for photosynthesis by symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living within their tissues.
- Plate-like Structure: The colony is composed of thin, plate-like structures called lamellae. These lamellae are interconnected by a network of ridges and grooves.
- Corallite Structure: Individual polyps (the small, soft-bodied animals that make up the coral colony) have a unique corallite structure, with a distinct central opening (the mouth) surrounded by a ring of tentacles.
- Color Variation: Agariciidae species display a wide range of colors, from browns and greens to yellows and oranges.
Environments
Agariciidae corals are predominantly found in shallow, clear, tropical and subtropical waters. They prefer areas with strong sunlight and moderate water currents. These corals are often found in coral reefs, lagoons, and other shallow-water habitats.
References
For more information about Agariciidae, refer to the following sources: