Long-Tentacle Plate Coral

Heliofungia actiniformis

Heliofungia actiniformis, known as the Long-tentacle Plate Coral, is a solitary species of mushroom coral found in the Indo-Pacific region. As juveniles, they are sessile, but as adults, they become free-living. They have a circular or oval shape, reaching up to 20 cm in diameter and 7 cm in height. The coral's thick, fleshy polyp features a single mouth surrounded by long tentacles with knobs, resembling a large sea anemone. This coral is commonly found on reef slopes and reef flats at depths ranging from 1 to 25 meters. The Long-tentacle Plate Coral is a zooxanthellate species, hosting symbiotic photosynthetic organisms that provide much of its metabolic needs. Additionally, it feeds on zooplankton captured by its tentacles. Reproduction occurs both sexually, by releasing eggs and sperm into the water, and asexually, through budding. These corals offer a micro-habitat for various marine life, including cleaner shrimps and juvenile fishes. Despite being common in certain areas, Heliofungia actiniformis faces threats from coral diseases, bleaching, climate change, and over-collection for the aquarium trade. It is considered 'Least Concern' by the IUCN, but its populations are vulnerable to ongoing degradation of coral reef habitats.