Acropora microphthalma
Verrill, 1859
Colonies in the Red Sea region are distinctive.
Description: Colonies frequently exceed 2 metres across and may form extensive single species stands. They are arborescent and small, usually forming thickets. Branches are slender and straight. Sub-branches may occur at irregular intervals. Radial corallites are small, numerous, and of similar size.
Color: Usually pale grey, sometimes pale brown or cream.
Habitat: Upper reef slopes, also turbid water and sandy lagoons.
Abundance: Common and may be a dominant species in shallow water.
Similar Species: Acropora microphthalma is readily confused with other Acropora if these develop staghorn-like growth-forms. It is closest to A. copiosa and sturdy forms of A. parilis, the latter being distinguished by having widely spaced, elongate radial corallites. See also A. horrida, A. vaughani and A. exquisita.
Taxonomic note: This species is divisible into several smaller semi-distinct taxonomic units. Source reference: Veron (2000). Taxonomic references: Veron and Wallace (1984), Wallace (1999). Identification guides: Veron (1986), Nishihira and Veron (1995).
An extensive monospecific stand. Zanzibar, Tanzania Photograph: Charlie Veron
An open branched colony. Palau Photograph: Gustav Paulay
Branch tips. Cocos (Keeling) Atoll, Western Australia Photograph: Charlie Veron
Branch detail. Solomon Islands Photograph: Neville Coleman
A small open branched colony in a lagoon. Flores, Indonesia Photograph: Charlie Veron
Skeletal detail. Axial and radial corallites.