Sps Id

[Witchdoctor_h]

I posted this in the reef discussion forum, but then I thought this would be a better place. Thanks.

I have this coral in my tank and I'm trying to find out what kind it is. Anyone have any idea? I think it is some type of encrusting montipora. http://reefcentral.com/gallery/show...rt=1&thecat=500 http://reefcentral.com/gallery/show...rt=1&thecat=500

 

[twon8]

links dont' work

 

[Witchdoctor_h]

I guess the links don't work, sorry.

 

[RCS]

Hard to tell from the pics, but it may be a Montipora or even a Hydnophora.

 

[Witchdoctor_h]

How can I tell them apart, taxinomically speaking?

And as far as ââ"šÂ¬Ã…"œAre you suggesting coconuts migrate?" Yes you could grip it by the husk!

 

[joetbs]

Based on your pics I'd say Hydnophora sp. Perhaps H. Pilosa.

joe

 

[Witchdoctor_h]

Joe,

I think you are right. I looked it up, and that looks like it. Is it as rare as it says?

Eric

 

[joetbs]

It's not really rare. Not the most common coral, but there a fair amount of them that show up on a regular basis. Nice coral in either case that is easy to care for.

joe

 

[RCS]

I think Hydnos are normally classified as "LPS" since they don't really have small individual polyps like Montipora do. That should be easy to tell. Hydnos have polyps similar to other LPS like Acans, wheres the polyps on Montipora resemble little flowers.

And BTW, it's not a question of where he grips it! It's a simple question of weight ratios! A five ounce bird could not carry a one pound coconut.