Tube Coral

Cladocora arbuscula

Tube Coral, belonging to the family Cladocoridae, forms clumps of interlocking tubular corallites. These structures are less than 4 mm in diameter and can be found either as compact formations attached to hard substrates or as loose aggregations on soft substrates. The corallites are often tan or brown with translucent tentacles, and only their terminal parts are typically alive. The septo-costae and corallite walls are thin and delicate, with irregular teeth. This coral is primarily found in the Western Central Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific regions. It resides in tropical waters, thriving at depths ranging from 0 to 37 meters. Tube Coral is commonly associated with turbid environments, such as seagrass beds and areas with sediment. It is a zooxanthellate species, meaning it has a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae, which contribute to its nutritional needs. In terms of reproduction, Tube Coral, like other members of the class Anthozoa, can be either gonochoric or hermaphroditic. Mature gametes are released into the coelenteron and spawned through the mouth. The resulting zygote develops into a planktonic planula larva, which undergoes metamorphosis and eventually settles on a substrate. According to the IUCN, Tube Coral is currently listed as Least Concern.