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Issue: Vol. 532 No. 1: 4 Jun. 2004
Type: Article
Published: 2004-06-04
DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.532.1.1
Page range: 1–8
Abstract views: 46
PDF downloaded: 4

Calathiscus tantillus, a new genus and new species of scleractinian coral (Scleractinia, Poritidae) from the Gulf of Oman

Sultan Qaboos University, College of Agricultual and Marine Sciences, Department of Marine Science and Fisheries, Box 34, Al-Khod 123, Sultanate of Oman
Sultan Qaboos University, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Department of Pathology, Electron Microscopy Unit, Box 35, Al-Khod 123, Sultanate of Oman
Coelenterata Cnidaria Scleractinia Poritidae new species new genus Indian Ocean Gulf of Oman coral coral reef

Abstract

Calathiscus tantillus new genus & new species (Scleractinia, Poritidae) is described from several specimens collected along the north coast of the Sultanate of Oman and Masirah Island. The zooxanthellate genus has a massive growth form, although colonies remain very small (< 40 mm). The skeletal characteristics are intermediate between Porites and Goniopora, with calices averaging 1.7 mm in diameter. The polyps, fully extended during the day in most specimens, have a long tubular column topped by a wide conical oral disc surrounded by 15 22 tentacles. The characteristics of this new species and genus are discussed in relation to other genera in the family: Porites, Goniopora, Stylarea, Alveopora and Poritipora.

References

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