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Mushroom coral

Rhodactis sp.

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Fun Facts

Mushroom corals can be aggressive towards other coral species when defending their territory.

Species Type:

Invertebrates, Corals

Common Name(s):

Mushroom coral

Size:

Species in the Rhodactis genus can grow up to 18 inches (46 centimeters) across.

Diet:

Using its polyp tentacles, mushroom corals catch and eat smaller marine organisms that drift by. They also have a special algae—called zooxanthellae– in their tissues that photosynthesize the sun's rays into energy/food.

Range & Habitat:

In the Indo-Pacific region, these corals can be found in lagoons, reef flats and other shallow water environments.

Details:

Mushroom corals are super diverse with infinite color combinations and textures. They have hair-like tentacles giving them a furry appearance.