Lattice Table Coral
Acropora clathrata
This distinctive species forms large plates with branches that project laterally. Branches can fuse to a high degree and in some locations completely anastmosed plates form. Mixed sized nariform radial corallites are densely compacted on the branch and colonies sometimes form tiers. Live colonies have a brown or grey colouration.
Morphology
Sturdy plate with laterally projecting arborescent branches.
Evolution
Species age estimated to be 0.6816 mya.
Behaviour
Acropora clathratais a zooxanthellate coral which harbours symbiotic dinoflagelates in its tissues. The coral relies heavily on the energy produced during photosynthesis by these algae.
Method of reproduction
Hermaphroditic spawner.
Habitat
Marine
Occurs subtidally in exposed and sheltered reef slope and back reef habitats (5-40m).
Distribution
Indo-Pacific.
Life Cycle
The zygote develops into a planktonic planula larva. Metamorphosis begins with early morphogenesis of tentacles, septa and pharynx before larval settlement on the aboral end.
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum: | Cnidaria |
| Class: | Anthozoa |
| Subclass: | Hexacorallia |
| Order: | Scleractinia |
| Family: | Acroporidae |
| Genus: | Acropora |
| Species: | clathrata |
| Name Published Year: | 1891 |
|---|---|
| Rank: | species |
| Scientific Name Authorship: | Brook |
| Commercial Impact: | None |
| Conservation Assessment: | Least Concern |
Cite this page
Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/acropora-clathrata
Accessed 25 Apr 2025
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