Pachyseris
Pachyseris is a genus of stony corals in the family Agariciidae. These corals are commonly known as “plate corals” due to their flattened, plate-like growth form. They are found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, and are known for their beautiful, intricate patterns and vibrant coloration.
Characteristics
Pachyseris corals are characterized by their robust, thick, and often contorted skeletal structure. Their colonies typically form flattened, plate-like structures with distinct corallites (individual coral polyps) arranged in a radial pattern. The corallites are usually surrounded by a raised, rim-like structure called a "coenosteum," which gives the coral a distinctive texture.
The color of Pachyseris corals varies greatly depending on the species and environmental conditions. They can be found in shades of brown, green, orange, yellow, and even purple. Many species also have intricate patterns of lines, stripes, and dots on their surfaces. The polyps are typically small and have short tentacles. The coral's fleshy tissue, called the "coenosarc," covers the skeleton and contains zooxanthellae, symbiotic algae that provide the coral with food through photosynthesis.
Environments
Pachyseris corals prefer clear, shallow waters with strong currents. They are typically found on coral reefs, particularly in areas with high light intensity and moderate wave action. They can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures and salinity levels, but are sensitive to pollution and sedimentation.
Species
There are several recognized species within the genus Pachyseris, including:
- Pachyseris rugosa (Lamarck, 1816)
- Pachyseris speciosa (Dana, 1846)
- Pachyseris inconstans (Verrill, 1869)
- Pachyseris aspera (Dana, 1846)
- Pachyseris cavernosa (Klunzinger, 1879)
References
For more information on Pachyseris corals, please refer to these reliable sources: