Hermatypic corals of Western Australia: records and annotated species list

WA Museum Records and Supplements | Updated 1 decade ago

Abstract: A list of hermatypic coral species from Western Australia is presented for the first time, based principally on the Western Australian Museum collections. Locality and habitat data are given for specimens of 318 species, of 70 genera, from the coast of Western Australia and many of its offshore islands and reefs.

Computer analysis of distribution patterns shows a major division between reefal and non-reefal regions. Within reefal regions the offshore reefs are distinguished from the more southerly onshore reefs while the Houtman Abrolhos reefs are relatively distinct. Northern and southern non-reefal regions form distinct groups.