Merulina ampliata

(Ellis & Solander, 1786)

Vernacular names
English : Crispy crust coral
French : Corail merle

Classification
Class : Anthozoa
Order : Scleractinia
Family : Merulinidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Colonies are usually laminar but can exhibit branch-like growth. Pattern of intricate small ridges and valleys, usually contorting and sometimes extending in a fan-like pattern. Coloration highly variable, sometimes very bright.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to south Japan and Australia, east to central Pacific islands. Found in most coral reef environments, particularly lagoons, down to 40 meters.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species is locally common within its very large range but rare in the Red Sea. Like all stony corals, it is vulnerable to climate change and pollution.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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