Biology
provided by World Register of Marine Species
zooxanthellate
van der Land, J. (ed). (2008). UNESCO-IOC Register of Marine Organisms (URMO).
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Description
provided by World Register of Marine Species
A colonial fungiid which is oval in shape, and which is distinguished by its lack of a central furrow. Instead, all corallites are of similar size, and are scattered closely over the entire surface of the colony. The corallites contain septa which have a distinct, petaloid shape. Living specimens are commonly seen with tentacles out during the daytime. Colonies are free-living, elongate, with an axial furrow that may become indistinct. Centres are evenly distributed over the upper surface. Primary septa are short, elliptical or petaloid, secondary septa usually fuse around the primaries to form a fused background matrix. Polyps are usually extended during the day. Tentacles are long and numerous. Colour: grey, greenish or cream, with white tentacle tips. Abundance: common on reef slopes, especially where Fungia is common. (Veron, 1986 )
Roux, J.P. (2001) Conspectus of Southern African Pteridophyta. Southern African Botanical Diversity Network Report 13 Page 118 (Includes a picture).
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