チヂミセンベイサンゴ

Overview

Leptoseris yabei, often known as Yabe's coral, is a stony coral species within the family Agariciidae. It is an uncommon but recognizable inhabitant of deeper reef slopes across the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the Red Sea to Japan and Melanesia.

Appearance

This species typically forms large, laminar colonies that grow in tiered, whorled, or vase-shaped structures, sometimes exceeding one meter in diameter. Its colonies are noted for a distinct, somewhat glassy or shiny appearance. The surface is characterized by radiating ridges and parallel walls that create rectangular pockets, which house the corallites. The coral is generally pale brown or yellowish in color, occasionally featuring lighter or white margins.

Distribution & habitat

Leptoseris yabei is widely distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the western Pacific. It is most frequently encountered on flat substrates along deeper reef slopes, where it thrives in environments with reduced light intensity.

Biology & behavior

Like many other stony corals, this species maintains a mutualistic relationship with photosynthetic microalgae known as zooxanthellae. These algae reside within the coral's tissues, providing a significant portion of the coral's nutritional requirements through the products of photosynthesis. The remaining energy needs are met by capturing plankton and absorbing dissolved organic matter from the surrounding water column.