Open Brain Coral [Trachyphyllia geoffroyi]
Description
Trachyphyllia geoffroyi is a free-living coral species often referred to as Open Brain Coral. This species has a unique appearance characterized by a fleshy polyp that extends over its calcium carbonate skeleton. It often demonstrates vibrant colors such as red, green, or a mix of both. Open Brain Coral is found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the shallow waters of lagoons and seaward reefs. It feeds mostly at night, capturing plankton and other small organisms with its tentacles.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Jellyfish, Sea Anemones, and Relatives
Cnidaria
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Sea Anemones and Corals
Anthozoa
|
| Order |
Stony Corals
Scleractinia
|
| Family |
Mussidae
Mussidae
|
| Genus |
Open Brain Corals
Trachyphyllia
|