Open Brain Coral

Trachyphyllia geoffroyi

Habitat & Distribution : Reef-associated; sandy or muddy reef slopes and lagoons, depths up to 40 m, Indo-Pacific ocean

Diet : Nutrients from zooxanthellan photosynthesis; zooplankton and small crustaceans

Size: up to 20 cm

Lifespan: 10 - 20 years

Description

The open brain coral is a small stony coral with an hourglass-shaped body, often in bright colors such as blue, green, brown, red, pink or yellow. It has fleshy polyps. The skeleton has a folded shape, like a brain or a cabbage. 

Behavior

During the day, the coral retracts its tentacles anda  "mantle" will encase its body, though it could be retracted as well if it is disturbed. At night, it extends its tentacles to look for food in the water.

Reproduction

They can reproduce sexually and asexually. Sexually, by releasing gametes into the water where fertilization will occur externally, and the resulting larva will develop into a free-swimming planula. Asexually, it does so by budding, growing a new polyp bud by the parent's base that will separate and grow into a new individual.

Communication & Perception

Like other cnidarians, they are known to have a network of nerve cells that can sense light, pressure, physical contact and chemical cues.

Predator

Tangs and angelfish.

Conservation Status : Near Threatened (IUCN Red List; 2008)