Dendrophyllia
Dendrophyllia is a genus of solitary, colonial, and reef-building stony corals belonging to the family Dendrophylliidae. These corals are distinguished by their distinctive branching or tree-like growth forms, giving rise to their common name, “tree corals.” They are widespread throughout tropical and subtropical waters, playing a significant role in the structure and function of coral reefs.
Common Names
Dendrophyllia corals are commonly referred to as "tree corals" due to their branching growth habit. Some species are also known as "branching corals," "finger corals," or "pillar corals," depending on their specific morphology.
Characteristics
Dendrophyllia corals exhibit a variety of growth forms, ranging from solitary polyps to branching colonies. They are characterized by:
- Branching or tree-like growth: The coral skeleton is often highly branched, resembling a tree or shrub.
- Solitary or colonial polyps: Some species are solitary, while others form colonies of interconnected polyps.
- Calcareous skeleton: The coral skeleton is composed of calcium carbonate, forming a hard, rigid structure.
- Large, prominent polyps: Dendrophyllia polyps are generally larger than those of other stony corals, with distinct oral discs and tentacles.
- Zooxanthellae: Most Dendrophyllia species are zooxanthellate, meaning they host symbiotic dinoflagellates (zooxanthellae) within their tissues, providing them with nutrients through photosynthesis.
Environments
Dendrophyllia corals are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Coral reefs: They are common inhabitants of shallow, tropical and subtropical reefs, where they contribute to reef structure and biodiversity.
- Rocky shores: Some species can tolerate exposure to air and waves, colonizing rocky shores and intertidal zones.
- Deep sea: Several Dendrophyllia species are adapted to living in deep-water environments, where they play a role in cold-water coral ecosystems.