Lithophyllon lobata
Horst, 1921
Description: Usually only one large central corallite is formed and this is distinctive. Peripheral corallites are usually much smaller. Sometimes there is a small cluster of central corallites. Septo-costae radiate from the central corallite, are thin, wavy and exsert and may have tentacular lobes.
Color: Brown, may be mottled.
Habitat: Reef environments and rocky foreshores.
Abundance: Usually uncommon.
Similar Species: Distinguished from Lithophyllon undulatum by having a prominent central corallite.
Source reference: Veron (2000). Taxonomic references: Veron and Hodgson (1989), Veron (1992). Identification guide: Nishihira and Veron (1995).
Saucer sized colony with a conspicuous central corallite. Calamian Islands, Philippines Photograph: Charlie Veron
A cluster of central corallites like this is sometimes formed. Calamian Islands, Philippines Photograph: Charlie Veron
This species has a large central corallite and few, if any, peripheral corallites. Ryukyu Islands, Japan Photograph: Charlie Veron
Skeletal detail. Showing corallites.
Detail of small peripheral corallites. Calamian Islands, Philippines Photograph: Charlie Veron