Acropora abrotanoides

Acropora abrotanoides is a coral species found across the Indo-Pacific region, stretching from the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden to the East China Sea, Japan, and Australia. This coral thrives in shallow reef environments, particularly in areas exposed to strong wave action, such as reef margins and shallow reef tops. It is typically found at depths ranging from 2 to 15 meters. The coral forms colonies of fused branches that can grow up to 3 meters in diameter. These colonies are often table-shaped, with vertical outer branches and a mix of elongated and conical fused branches in the center. The coral is usually green-grey or pink-brown in color, which can help distinguish it from similar species like Acropora pinguis and Acropora robusta. Acropora abrotanoides is vulnerable to threats such as coral bleaching, diseases, and predation by the crown-of-thorns starfish. However, it is somewhat resistant to predation due to its well-developed radial corallite lips. The species reproduces by shedding mature gametes into the coelenteron, which are then spawned through the mouth. The resulting zygote develops into a planktonic planula larva, which eventually settles and begins metamorphosis. Although its population is believed to be decreasing, it is listed under Appendix II of CITES. Divers encountering this coral can expect to find it in complex and diverse ecosystems of shallow coral reefs.