Pocillopora damicornis

This species often forms races characteristic of particular geographic regions. This solidly constructed race is found in subtropical western Pacific localities. Norfolk Island, western Pacific Photograph: Charlie Veron

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Characters: Colonies are compact clumps reaching several metres across. There is no clear distinction between verrucae and branches as these intergrade with each other. Branches are highly compact and sturdy in habitats exposed to strong wave action and are thin and open in deep or protected habitats. Colour: Usually pale brown, greenish or pink. Similar species: Pocillopora danae, which has thicker branches and does not have intergrading verrucae and branches. Habitat: Occurs in all shallow water habitats from exposed reef fronts to mangrove swamps and wharf piles. Abundance: Common.

Taxonomic note: This species is divisible into several smaller semi-distinct taxonomic units. Source reference: Veron (2000). Taxonomic references: Veron and Pichon (1976), Dai (1989). Identification guides: Veron (1986), Sheppard and Sheppard (1991), Nishihira and Veron (1995), Coles (1996).