Millepora
Millepora is a genus of colonial, stinging cnidarians commonly known as fire corals. Despite their name, fire corals are not true corals (order Scleractinia). Instead, they are closely related to jellyfish and hydroids. Fire corals are found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide, typically in shallow, clear waters.
Characteristics
Fire corals form colonies that can range in size from a few centimeters to several meters. Their colonies are characterized by a hard, calcareous skeleton that is covered by a thin layer of living tissue. The living tissue contains polyps, which are small, individual animals that are responsible for feeding and reproduction. Unlike true corals, fire corals lack true coral polyps. Fire corals have two types of polyps: gastrozooids and dactylozooids. The gastrozooids are responsible for feeding, while the dactylozooids are responsible for defense. The dactylozooids possess stinging nematocysts, which can cause painful stings to humans.
Environments
Fire corals are found in a variety of marine environments, including reefs, lagoons, and rocky shores. They prefer clear, warm waters with high levels of sunlight. They can be found in depths ranging from the intertidal zone to about 50 meters.