Acropora clathrata growing on the lower reef slope at Christmas Island (Photo: Zoe Richards)
Acropora clathrata growing on the reef slope at Scott Reef (Photo: Zoe Richards)

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.

Taxonomy

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

Net Conservation Benefits Fund

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Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/acropora-clathrata
Accessed 31 Aug 2023

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