Devonshire Cup Coral

Overview

The Devonshire Cup Coral (Caryophyllia smithii) is a solitary stony coral native to the northeastern Atlantic, the North Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea. Unlike many reef-building corals, this species lives as an individual polyp rather than in colonies, often found attached to rocky substrates or shells.

Appearance

This coral features a hard, cup-shaped stony skeleton with an elliptical base, typically measuring up to 25 mm in diameter. When undisturbed, the translucent polyp extends from the skeleton, revealing approximately 80 slender tentacles, each tipped with a small, distinct knob. The coloration is highly variable, ranging from white, pink, and orange to red, brown, or bright green, often featuring a contrasting zig-zag pattern around the mouth.

Distribution & habitat

Caryophyllia smithii is widely distributed across the British Isles, southwestern Europe, and the Mediterranean. It thrives in rocky areas, including tidal pools, vertical rock faces, and artificial structures. While it is most commonly found below the low tide line, it occupies a broad depth range, with different structural forms adapted to shallow waters versus deeper environments reaching down to 1,000 meters.

Feeding

As a carnivore, the coral uses its tentacles to capture zooplankton and organic particles suspended in the water column. Once trapped, the food is drawn into the central mouth for digestion.

Biology & behavior

This species is generally solitary, though it may occasionally be found in small clusters of two to four individuals. It is frequently host to the barnacle Megatrema anglicum, which can live on the coral without being harmed by its sting. Reproduction occurs in early spring, when the coral releases gametes into the water; the resulting larvae are free-swimming for about two days before settling onto a firm surface to begin their development.