Porites
Porites is a genus of colonial stony corals in the family Poritidae. They are commonly known as finger corals or branching corals, and are widespread throughout tropical and subtropical waters of the world. They are among the most common and abundant corals in many regions, contributing significantly to the structure and biodiversity of coral reefs.
Characteristics
Porites corals are characterized by their massive, branching, or encrusting growth forms. They have a relatively simple internal structure, with corallites (individual coral polyps) that are closely spaced and often fused together. The coral skeleton is typically composed of aragonite, a form of calcium carbonate, and can be a variety of colors, including brown, gray, yellow, and orange.
Environments
Porites species are found in a wide range of environments, from shallow, wave-exposed reefs to deep, sheltered lagoons. They are tolerant of a variety of environmental conditions, including high temperatures, salinity, and turbidity. This adaptability allows them to thrive in areas where other coral species may struggle.
Species
There are over 40 recognized species of Porites, and many more subspecies and varieties. Some of the most common species include:
- Porites astreoides (Mustard Hill Coral)
- Porites cylindrica (Finger Coral)
- Porites compressa (Lesser Star Coral)
- Porites lobata (Lobed Star Coral)
- Porites lutea (Yellow Porites)
Importance
Porites corals play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. They provide habitat for a wide variety of marine organisms, including fish, invertebrates, and algae. They also help to protect coastlines from erosion and storms. Unfortunately, like many other coral species, Porites are threatened by a variety of factors, including climate change, pollution, and overfishing.
References
For more information on Porites, you can refer to the following resources: