Echinopora
Echinopora is a genus of stony corals belonging to the family Acroporidae. These corals are commonly known as “spiny corals” due to their characteristic spiky, branching skeletons. They are widely distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region, favoring shallow, reef-associated habitats.
Characteristics
Echinopora corals are characterized by their robust, branching skeletons that often have a distinctive spiny or knobby appearance. They typically form colonies of individual polyps, each possessing a single, central mouth surrounded by tentacles. These corals are primarily found in various shades of brown, green, and yellow, with some species exhibiting vibrant fluorescent colors under ultraviolet light. The polyps themselves are typically small and are housed within individual calices (cups) on the coral skeleton.
Environments
Echinopora corals are generally found in shallow, reef environments, often thriving in areas exposed to moderate wave action. They prefer clear, well-lit waters with high levels of nutrients and moderate water flow.
Common Names
Some common names used for Echinopora species include:
- Spiny coral
- Knobby coral
- Branching coral
- Echinopora coral