Astroides
Astroides is a genus of colonial stony corals belonging to the family Dendrophylliidae. These corals are characterized by their bright orange or red color and their distinctive star-shaped polyps, giving rise to their common name, “star coral.” They are typically found in the Mediterranean Sea and the northeastern Atlantic Ocean.
Characteristics
Astroides corals are characterized by their compact, hemispherical or dome-shaped colonies. They are typically small, with colonies rarely exceeding 10 cm in diameter. The polyps of Astroides are relatively large and prominent, with six or eight tentacles that are arranged in a star-like pattern around the mouth. These corals can be identified by their bright orange or red color, which is caused by the presence of pigments in their tissues.
Habitat and Distribution
Astroides corals are found in the Mediterranean Sea and the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, where they are typically found in shallow, rocky habitats. These corals prefer sheltered locations with strong currents and high levels of sunlight. They are often found in association with other marine organisms, such as sponges, algae, and other invertebrates.
Ecology
Astroides corals are important members of the marine ecosystem. They provide habitat for a variety of other marine species, including fish, invertebrates, and algae. They also contribute to the overall biodiversity of the marine environment.
Astroides corals are zooxanthellate, meaning they have a symbiotic relationship with single-celled algae called zooxanthellae. These algae live within the tissues of the coral and provide it with food through photosynthesis. In return, the coral provides the algae with shelter and access to nutrients.
Conservation Status
Astroides corals are facing a number of threats, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing. These threats can lead to coral bleaching, disease, and death. As a result, Astroides corals are considered to be a species of concern in some regions.