831 species

Echinophyllia patula

(Hodgson and Ross, 1981)

Echinophyllia

Klunzinger, 1879

Characters: Colonies are thin laminae with widely spaced, irregular corallites. Corallites are immersed and have broad columellae. A large central corallite may be distinguishable. Costae are well developed and have exsert triangular teeth; there are deep pits where costae commence.

Colour: Usually grey-green, grey or brown.

Similar Species: Echinophyllia aspera, which has smaller, more exsert and more crowded corallites. Echinophyllia echinata has more irregular costae and a more prominent central corallite.

Habitat: Vertical substrates with clear water at 10-40 metres depth.

Abundance: Sometimes common.

Taxonomic References: Hodgson and Ross (1981); Veron (2000a);

Identification Guides: Nishihira and Veron (1995);

COTW History since Veron (2000a)
  • Family: All families are currently under review
  • Genus/species: No change