A worldwide community photographing and learning about wildlife
Project Noah Nature School
Oxypora lacera
Colonies are thin, only about 1-4mm thick except near the central attachment point, and rarely exceed 40cm across. Centers are about 5mm diameter and are often superficial. Septo-costae are spiny and sharp, and spines are prominent on the underside of the leaves, sometimes over 5mm long. Colonies are grey or pale brown, and are easily broken. Also, perforations in the leaves are generally very clear on thin specimens.
Widespread in the Indo-West Pacific area. Its preferred habitat is in sheltered waters, such as lagoons and sheltered reef areas.
I spotted this colony at a depth of less than 20 feet. It seemed damaged -- probably due to boat's anchors.
Spotted on Feb 5, 2012
Submitted on Feb 6, 2012
