divepix - Solitary Disc Coral

Solitary Disc Coral

Aspect:	The polyp ressembles a thick-edged tea cup saucer and can sport a range colours. A close look reveals a rough surface though. This species is known as solitary although the other two varieties (Artichoke and Atlantic Mushroom, q.v.) also grow in an isolated manner (as opposed to colonies). The central mouth slit is often visible in the centre of the usually concave disc centre.
Population:	Common.
Notable feature:	CAUTION: Although there are three distinct species of such small disc-shaped coral in the area - Artichoke Coral or Scolymia cubensis, Solitary Disc Coral or Scolymia wellsi, and Atlantic Mushroom Coral or Scloymia lacera - which can only be differentiated with certainty by a microscopic observation of their corallite structure (and more particularly the shape of tip of their septa), the latter can be distinguished by its considerably rougher surfaces. Other visual cues that help telling an Artichoke Coral from a Solitary Disc Coral involve the central surfaces, which tend to be convex in the former and concave in the latter.
Environment:	Usually found against rock or boulder walls.
Behaviour:	-