Elliptical Star Coral [Dichocoenia stokesii]
Description
The Elliptical Star Coral, or Dichocoenia stokesii, is a species of hard coral that can be found in the Caribbean Sea, the Bahamas and Florida. This species forms colonies that are either flat or dome-shaped, with individual corallites having an elliptical shape. This coral is typically found in shallow waters but can also be found in depths up to 30 meters. It is known for its mass spawning events, which usually occur a few days after the full moon.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Jellyfish, Sea Anemones, and Relatives
Cnidaria
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Sea Anemones and Corals
Anthozoa
|
| Order |
Stony Corals
Scleractinia
|
| Family |
Dendrophylliidae
Dendrophylliidae
|
| Genus |
Pillar Corals
Dendrophyllia
|