Leaf Coral

Pavona decussata

Leaf coral, scientifically known as Pavona decussata, is a colonial stony coral found in tropical parts of the western and central Indo-Pacific region. These corals form submassive colonies with leafy appendages or branches, which are typically between 3 and 10 millimeters thick. The corallites, small skeletal structures housing the coral polyps, are scattered irregularly or aligned in rows along the margins of the leaves. The coloration of leaf coral can vary, presenting shades of green, brown, orange, or creamy yellow. Leaf coral is commonly found in various reef habitats, especially on gently sloping surfaces. It thrives in shallow waters, typically at depths down to about 15 meters, although it can be found as deep as 40 meters. This species is widespread across the Indo-Pacific, from East Africa and the Red Sea to Japan, the Philippines, and eastern Australia. Leaf coral can form colonies several meters in diameter and height, with growth patterns influenced by water conditions. In terms of reproduction, members of the class Anthozoa, to which leaf coral belongs, can be either gonochoric or hermaphroditic. They release mature gametes into the coelenteron, which are then spawned through the mouth. The zygote develops into a planktonic planula larva, which eventually settles and begins metamorphosis. Leaf coral is currently assessed as 'Least Concern' by the IUCN, though it is vulnerable to bleaching and habitat destruction.