Distichopora
Distichopora is a genus of colonial stony corals in the family Pocilloporidae. They are commonly known as finger corals due to their branching structure. These corals are characterized by their unique growth form, with two rows of polyps arranged along the branches, giving the appearance of rows of fingers. They are found in a variety of tropical and subtropical environments, including coral reefs, lagoons, and rocky shores.
Characteristics
Distichopora corals are distinguished by the following characteristics:
- Colonial: They form colonies made up of numerous individual polyps connected by a shared skeleton.
- Branching Growth Form: They exhibit a distinctive branching growth pattern, with branches typically arranged in two rows.
- Two Rows of Polyps: Polyps are arranged in two rows along the branches, giving rise to the "finger coral" name.
- Calcareous Skeleton: Like other stony corals, Distichopora corals build a hard, calcium carbonate skeleton.
- Zooxanthellae: They host symbiotic zooxanthellae algae within their tissues, providing them with energy through photosynthesis.
Environments
Distichopora corals are found in a variety of marine habitats, including:
- Coral Reefs: They are common inhabitants of both shallow and deeper reefs.
- Lagoons: They can thrive in sheltered lagoons with calm water.
- Rocky Shores: Some species are found attached to rocky substrates in intertidal zones.
Distribution
Distichopora corals are primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Their distribution ranges from the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, including Australia and the islands of the South Pacific.