bowl coral
Halomitra clavator
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Ingo Rogalla, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Ingo Rogalla
Overview
Halomitra clavator is a distinctive bowl coral species characterized by its large, plate-like structure that can grow up to 50 cm in diameter with a characteristic bowl or funnel shape. This hard coral features radiating septa (skeletal plates) and plays a crucial role in reef ecosystems by providing habitat for fish and invertebrates while contributing to calcium carbonate reef structure.
Bowl coral (Halomitra clavator) faces significant threats from ocean warming and acidification, which cause coral bleaching and reduce calcification rates essential for skeletal growth. Coastal development, pollution, and destructive fishing practices further degrade the shallow reef environments this species depends on for survival.
Habitat
Shallow tropical coral reefs and reef slopes in the Indo-Pacific region, typically found at depths of 5-30 meters in clear, warm waters with strong currents. This species prefers hard substrate areas on outer reef slopes and reef crests where it can form large, plate-like colonies.
Other threatened species in Fungiidae
Threatened in Indonesia
Frequently asked questions
Why is bowl coral classified as Vulnerable?
Where does bowl coral live?
What are the main threats to bowl coral?
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