Rhizangiidae

Rhizangiidae is a family of stony corals, which are marine invertebrates in the class Anthozoa. This family is composed of a small number of species, all of which are colonial corals. They are characterized by their unique and complex skeletal structures, which are often described as “branching” or “dendritic.” These structures are formed by the polyps, the individual animals that make up the colony, secreting a calcium carbonate skeleton. Rhizangiidae corals are found in a variety of tropical and subtropical marine environments, including shallow reefs, lagoons, and seagrass beds.

Brazilian Starlet Coral – Siderastrea stellata

False Pillow Coral – Pseudosiderastrea tayamai

Common Names

Members of the Rhizangiidae family are commonly referred to as "dendritic corals" due to their branching skeleton. Some species have additional common names, such as the "branching coral" or "tree coral."

Characteristics

Rhizangiidae corals possess several distinct characteristics, which distinguish them from other stony coral families:

  • Branching or Dendritic Skeleton: The most prominent characteristic is their branching or dendritic skeletal structure. This creates a unique and often intricate appearance.
  • Colonial Organization: All Rhizangiidae species are colonial, meaning they consist of numerous individual polyps connected by a shared skeleton.
  • Zooxanthellae Symbiosis: Like many other corals, Rhizangiidae species engage in a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, single-celled algae that live within their tissues. This symbiosis provides the corals with nutrients.
  • Limited Species Diversity: The family Rhizangiidae comprises a relatively small number of species compared to other stony coral families.

Environments

Rhizangiidae corals are found in various tropical and subtropical marine environments, including:

  • Shallow Reefs: They are commonly found in shallow reef habitats, where they contribute to the structure and diversity of the reef ecosystem.
  • Lagoons: Rhizangiidae species can also be found in lagoons, where they may grow in protected areas with calm water conditions.
  • Seagrass Beds: Some species are found in seagrass beds, where they provide habitat for other marine organisms.

References

For further information on Rhizangiidae, please refer to the following reliable sources: