Cynarina

Characteristics

Cynarina corals are characterized by their massive, columnar, or encrusting growth forms. They possess large, prominent, and often colorful corallites, which are the individual skeletal units of the coral. The corallites are cup-shaped, with distinct walls and radial septa, which are vertical plates that radiate from the center of the corallite. The septa are usually strongly developed and may be toothed or spiny. Cynarina species are typically brightly colored, ranging from shades of green, brown, orange, and pink.

Environments

Cynarina corals are found in a variety of reef environments, including shallow reef flats, lagoon slopes, and outer reef slopes. They are often found in areas with strong currents and high water flow. These corals are tolerant of a wide range of water conditions, including high temperatures, low salinities, and moderate levels of sedimentation.

Common Names

Cynarina corals are known by several common names, including:

• Cup coral
• Flower coral
• Brain coral (though this term is more commonly used for other coral genera)

References

For further information about Cynarina corals, refer to the following sources:

• World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS)
• Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS)
• Reef HQ