Caulastraea
Caulastraea is a genus of stony corals in the family Merulinidae. These corals are typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. They are often referred to as “cauliflower corals” due to their distinctive, rounded, and convoluted growth forms.
Common Names
Common names for Caulastraea corals include:
- Cauliflower coral
- Brain coral (although this term is often used for other coral genera)
Characteristics
Caulastraea corals exhibit a number of distinctive features:
- Growth form: Typically rounded, convoluted, and resembling a cauliflower, with a massive, irregular shape.
- Corallites: Small and numerous, with distinct, raised walls that create a bumpy surface.
- Color: Can vary widely, ranging from brown, tan, and green to reddish-brown and purple. Some species exhibit fluorescent pigments.
- Symbiosis: They are zooxanthellate, meaning they form a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae called zooxanthellae, which provide them with nutrients.
Environment
Caulastraea corals are found in a variety of reef environments, including:
- Reef slopes: They are often found on the slopes of coral reefs, where they can receive ample sunlight and water circulation.
- Lagoons: Some species are also found in protected lagoon environments.
They are typically found in shallow, clear waters, where they can receive adequate sunlight for their symbiotic algae.
References
For more information about Caulastraea corals, you can refer to the following resources: