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Fleshy brain coral (Lobophyllia hemprichii)

Photo of Fleshy brain coral (Lobophyllia hemprichii)

Key facts

Scientific name
Lobophyllia hemprichii
Common name
Fleshy brain coral
Category
Corals
Family
Lobophylliidae
Genus
Lobophyllia
Size
20–150 cm
Depth
2–40 m
IUCN status
Least concern (LC)
Danger level
Harmless
Habitats
coral-reef
Behaviours
sessile, colonial
Ocean zones
Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea

Description

Lobophyllia hemprichii reaches 1.5 m colonies. Hard coral (Scleractinia) with very large fleshy individual polyps forming large bumpy colonies with contiguous lobes (hence lobophyllia). Stunning psychedelic colors: fluo green, fluo pink, red, purple, orange, yellow, often in concentric or banded patterns (mouth/tentacles differently colored). Lives from 2 to 40 m on coral reefs of Indo-Pacific. Listed LC. Spectacular UV fluorescence under dive lights at night. Prized macro photo subject.

Photo of Fleshy brain coral

Photo of Fleshy brain coral (Lobophyllia hemprichii)Photo of Fleshy brain coral (Lobophyllia hemprichii)Photo of Fleshy brain coral (Lobophyllia hemprichii)

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Fleshy brain coral?
Fleshy brain coral (Lobophyllia hemprichii) reaches 20–150 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Fleshy brain coral?
Fleshy brain coral is found between 2–40 m deep.
Is the Fleshy brain coral dangerous to divers?
Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Fleshy brain coral?
IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Fleshy brain coral?
Found in: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Similar species

  • Fungia fungites - Mushroom coral
  • Heliopora coerulea - Blue coral
  • Corallium rubrum - Red coral
  • Eunicella singularis - White gorgonian
  • Stylophora pistillata - Smooth cauliflower coral
  • Paramuricea clavata - Red gorgonian

Sources

  • Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 207392)
  • Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
  • Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2260326)
  • Conservation: IUCN Red List
  • Encyclopedia: Wikipedia