Acropora cophodactyla
A taxon inquirendum acroporid coral from Indo-Pacific reefs.
Acropora cophodactyla is a species of acroporid coral of uncertain taxonomic validity, classified as a taxon inquirendum. It is found in the central Indo-Pacific, Australia, southeast Asia, the Solomon Islands, the western Pacific Ocean, Fiji, the Andaman Islands, and American Samoa, and may be synonymous with Acropora humilis.
Quick Facts
- Taxon
- Acropora cophodactyla
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Acropora cophodactyla was first described as Madrepora cophodactyla by Brook in 1892. Its current taxonomic status is uncertain, as it is classified as a taxon inquirendum and may be synonymous with Acropora humilis. The species occurs in encrusted-based colonies composed of digitated bushes, with thick branches that taper to a point bearing a single obvious axial corallite. Incipient axial and radial corallites vary in diameter and occur in no specific pattern. The species is mainly purple or blue in colour and looks similar to Acropora anthocercis, Acropora appressa, and Acropora humilis.
Reader's Guide
Acropora cophodactyla is listed as data deficient on the IUCN Red List, but its population is believed to be decreasing due to the global decline of coral reefs. It is also listed under Appendix II of CITES. Population figures are unknown, but the species is probably 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 occurs at depths between 0 and 12 metres in the central Indo-Pacific, southeast Asia, Australia, the Solomon Islands, and the western Pacific, and is abundant in Guam. Its uncertain taxonomic status as a taxon inquirendum means its distinctness from Acropora humilis remains unresolved, which complicates conservation assessments and management efforts.
Did You Know?
- It is classified as a taxon inquirendum, meaning its taxonomic validity is uncertain.
- The species may be synonymous with Acropora humilis.
- It is abundant in Guam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acropora cophodactyla?
Acropora cophodactyla is a branching acroporid coral that grows on shallow, exposed reef slopes and flats in tropical Indo-Pacific waters. It typically occupies depths from the surface down to roughly 12 meters.
Where can Acropora cophodactyla be found?
This coral has a broad Indo-Pacific range, with records from Australia, the Solomon Islands, Fiji, the Andaman Islands, American Samoa, and various southeast Asian reef systems. It favors exposed upper reef slopes and shallow flats rather than deep or sheltered habitats.
Is Acropora cophodactyla a valid species?
Its taxonomic standing is uncertain, and it is currently treated as a taxon inquirendum, meaning further research is needed to confirm its distinct identity. Some researchers suspect it may simply be a duplicate name (synonym) of Acropora humilis.
What is the conservation status of Acropora cophodactyla?
The IUCN lists this coral as Data Deficient, reflecting the limited information available on its population trends and full distribution. Despite that uncertainty, it is included in CITES Appendix II, so international trade in specimens is regulated.
Who first described Acropora cophodactyla and when?
The name was originally published by the coral researcher Brook in 1892. More than a century later, the species still lacks a fully resolved taxonomic placement within the Acropora genus.
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