Coral ID

[fireman26m]

This guy (brown, fuzzy stuff) started off about 1/4" in diameter and now is about 3" x 4". Any ideas?

TIA

Fireman

 

[xxmoorishmanxx]

maybe some kind of encrusting montipora? not sure just a guess

 

[Fluff]

I'm gonna guess a brown porites.

 

[TCTFish]

I agree with fluff. Brown porites. I noticed the little fan worm in the coral. Nice!!Looks very healthy. Pat yourself on the back!! 8)

 

[Brad]

Hey, I've got a lot of that coral and I've always wondered what it was. It thrives under my MH. It overgrows coraline and even overgrows macroalgae to form interesting shapes.

Here's a shot of mine. It has tripled in size since this was taken. I'm actually a bit concerned that it will completely cover all the lit surface of my LR!

 

[TCTFish]

If you want to control it's territory, try making a border of hairy mushrooms or stinging coral. It helps with keeping Xenias from spreading where you don't want them to. It might help with the porites too.

 

[Brad]

...btw...this coral is extremely rough and sharp surfaced. It is exactly the kind of coral you wouldn't want to brush up against while you're snorkeling.

 

[fireman26m]

I noticed it has "hairs" that cover it and retract when disturbed.

 

[TCTFish]

I think those hairs are like polyps/tentacles. It's what they use to feed.