831 species

Leptastrea pruinosa

Crossland, 1952

Leptastrea

Milne Edwards and Haime, 1848

Characters: Colonies are generally flat with angular, cerioid corallites. Septa are in distinctive cycles and have granulated sides and margins. Tentacles are usually extended during the day.

Colour: Commonly chocolate brown or pink with green or cream calices.

Similar Species: Readily identified underwater by having extended polyps during the day. Skeletons are differentiated from Leptastrea purpurea by having granulated septa giving a frosted appearance.

Habitat: Shallow clear water.

Abundance: Uncommon.

Taxonomic Note: A species complex.

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