Astraeosmilia maxima

Astraeosmilia maxima is a coral species native to the Indo-West Pacific, ranging from 36°N to 31°S and 32°E to 157°E. It inhabits tropical waters and is commonly found in various reef environments such as reef slopes, rocky reefs, subtidal rocks, lagoons, and sometimes in areas with soft substrates between reefs. This coral is typically observed at depths from the surface down to 35 meters, with the majority of sightings occurring in shallower waters, often less than 10 meters deep. The colonies of Astraeosmilia maxima are generally small and have a massive structure. Its corallites are notable for their distinct walls, with septa that are thickened and form a crown-like structure around the columella. The polyps can appear fleshy, and the coral's coloration ranges from brown to yellow-brown, with oral discs that may be dull green or white. Reproduction in Astraeosmilia maxima involves either separate sexes or hermaphroditic individuals. Gametes mature within the coral and are released into the water through the mouth. The life cycle includes a planktonic larval stage, where the larvae develop essential structures like tentacles and septa before settling. The species is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.