Acropora lutkeni
Endangered acroporid coral found in Indo-Pacific shallow reefs.
Acropora lutkeni is a species of acroporid coral found in tropical shallow reefs of the central Indo-Pacific, Japan, Australia, the northern Indian Ocean, the East China Sea, southeast Asia, and the central and western Pacific Ocean. It also occurs in the south Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Palau, the Andaman Islands, Fiji, the Philippines, the Banggai Islands, Samoa, the Raja Ampat Islands, the Line Islands, Papua New Guinea, and the Chagos Archipelago. The species is notable for being listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List and under Appendix II of CITES, with a believed decreasing population.
Quick Facts
- Genus
- Acropora
- Species
- lutkeni
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Acropora lutkeni was described by Crossland in 1952. It forms corymbose colonies in plate structures with tapered branches. Axial corallites are present and rounded, while radial corallites are not orderly and have a variety of diameters and shapes. The species is grey, purple, or cream-brown in colour and looks similar to Acropora forskali.
Reader's Guide
Acropora lutkeni is classed as an endangered species on the IUCN Red List, with a believed decreasing population. It is also listed under Appendix II of CITES. Figures of its population are unknown, but the species is likely threatened by the global reduction of coral reefs, increased temperature causing coral bleaching, climate change, human activity, the crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci), and disease. It exists at depths of between 3 and 12 metres (9.8 and 39.4 ft) and is found on upper slopes exposed to wave action and currents, on edges of reefs, and on submerged reefs. It probably spawns in October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acropora lutkeni?
It is a branching stony coral in the genus Acropora that inhabits shallow tropical reefs. Crossland first formally described the species back in 1952.
Where can I find Acropora lutkeni in the wild?
This coral ranges across a wide swath of the Indo-Pacific, from the Andaman Islands and Fiji to Japan, Australia, and the Mariana Islands. It typically settles on reefs between roughly 3 and 12 meters deep.
What is Acropora lutkeni's conservation status?
The IUCN currently classifies the species as Endangered, and its populations are believed to be in decline. It is also listed under CITES Appendix II, which restricts international trade.
When does Acropora lutkeni release gametes?
Mass spawning events for this species occur in October. Like other acroporids, it is a broadcast spawner that releases eggs and sperm simultaneously into the water column.
Why is Acropora lutkeni important to reef ecology?
As a fast-growing branching coral, it provides structural complexity and shelter for small fish and invertebrates on shallow reefs. Its declining numbers make it a key indicator of reef health across the Indo-Pacific.
More in Acropora Corals, Part 2 1-24
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