Species Type:
Corals, Invertebrates
Common Name(s):
Umbrella false coral
Size:
This coral ranges from a few centimeters in diameter.
Diet:
Using special algae—zooxanthellae– in their tissues, angular sea rods use photosynthesis to convert the sun's rays into energy/food.
Range & Habitat:
In the Indo-Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, these corals prefer shallow water reef communities with good water flow and plentiful light.
Details:
Umbrella false corals range in color from purple and red to green and blue depending on environmental factors such as water depth and light levels. Though called “umbrella false corals,” this species is actually a type of soft coral, related to anemones and other invertebrates, but not a true stony coral.