Mycedium
Mycedium is a genus of stony corals belonging to the family Agariciidae. It is characterized by its distinctive mushroom-shaped colonies and its ability to form large, robust structures. These corals are widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific region and are known for their diverse color patterns, including shades of brown, orange, green, and purple.
Common Names
Mycedium species are commonly known as "mushroom corals" due to their distinctive shape. Other common names include "plate corals" and "leaf corals."
Characteristics
Mycedium corals are characterized by the following features:
- Mushroom-shaped colonies: Colonies grow in a distinctive mushroom-like form with a flat, plate-like base and a rounded, dome-shaped upper surface.
- Branching structures: Some species may exhibit branching structures, particularly along the edges of the colony.
- Numerous polyps: The colonies are covered in numerous small polyps, each with a single, central mouth.
- Color variation: Mycedium corals are known for their diverse color patterns, ranging from shades of brown and orange to green and purple.
- Zooxanthellae: Like many other stony corals, Mycedium species harbor symbiotic zooxanthellae, single-celled algae that provide the coral with nutrients through photosynthesis.
Environment
Mycedium corals are primarily found in shallow, reef environments throughout the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer clear, nutrient-rich waters with moderate water flow. These corals can tolerate a wide range of light conditions and are often found in both sunny and shaded areas.
References
For more information on Mycedium, refer to these reliable sources: