Porites evermanni

Porites evermanni is a species of coral belonging to the family Poritidae, found in tropical waters of the Western Central Pacific, particularly around Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. This species is sessile, meaning it remains attached to the substrate in its habitat, which typically includes coral reefs and reef slopes. Divers can encounter this coral at various depths, though it is most commonly found in shallower waters, with 79% of occurrences recorded at depths shallower than 40 meters, and 90% shallower than 50 meters. Porites evermanni is part of the class Anthozoa, which includes species that can be either gonochoric or hermaphroditic. Reproduction involves the release of mature gametes into the coelenteron, which are then spawned through the mouth. The life cycle continues with the development of a planktonic planula larva, which undergoes metamorphosis before settling on the substrate. This coral's presence contributes to the complex ecosystem of coral reefs, providing habitat and shelter for various marine organisms. The conservation status of Porites evermanni is listed as Endangered according to the IUCN Red List. This highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect its natural habitats and ensure the survival of this species.