831 species

Leptoseris scabra

Vaughan, 1907

Leptoseris

Milne Edwards and Haime, 1849

Characters: Colonies are composed of foliose to encrusting unifacial laminae which may become highly contorted forming hollow columns or tubes. A central corallite may be distinguishable. Corallites become more widely spaced towards the colony perimeter. They are irregular and usually outwardly inclined. Long and short septo-costae strongly alternate and are interlinked in complex patterns.

Colour: Dull grey, brown or green, usually with white margins.

Similar Species: Leptoseris hawaiiensis, which is distinguished by having deep, rounded corallites and a smooth coenosteum. See also L. solida and L. striata, which do not have strongly inclined corallites.

Habitat: Usually found on vertical or overhung walls in deeper water.

Abundance: Usually uncommon.

Taxonomic Note: A species complex and easily confused with Leptoseris solida.

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