Millepora squarrosa
| Millepora squarrosa | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification 
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| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Cnidaria |
| Class: | Hydrozoa |
| Order: | Anthoathecata |
| Family: | Milleporidae |
| Genus: | Millepora |
| Species: | M. squarrosa
|
| Binomial name | |
| Millepora squarrosa Lamarck, 1816
| |
| Synonyms | |
| |
Millepora squarrosa is a species of fire coral that can be found in the Caribbean Sea as well as in the western Atlantic.[1] They have a smooth surface covered in tiny pores from which polyps protrude. They can reach up to 5 centimeters in height[2] and can range from brown or tan in color with slight purple or red tints. It is commonly known as "box fire coral", which refers to its box-like structure and the stinging sensation felt when touched with a bare hand.[3]
References
- ^ Calder, Dale R.; Cairns, Stephen D. (2009). Gulf of Mexico Origin, Waters, and Biota. Vol. 1. Texas A&M University Press. pp. 381–394. ISBN 9781603440943.
- ^ "Box fire coral (Millepora squarrosa)". Marine Species Identification Portal. Retrieved 2012-07-31.
- ^ Weerdt, W.H. (1990). "Discontinuous distribution of the tropical west atlantic hydrocoral Millepora squarrosa". Beaufortia. 41 (27): 195–203.