Common name: bladed fire coral

General information

The Blade Fire Coral, Millepora complanata, is a hydrozoan coral that is often mistaken for a true stony coral due to its calcareous skeleton. It is part of the Milleporidae family and is known for its potent sting, which can cause a burning sensation in humans, hence the name 'fire coral'. Unlike true corals, fire corals have small, stinging polyps and are more closely related to jellyfish and other hydrozoans.

Care

Blade Fire Coral requires a moderate to high flow environment to thrive, as this mimics their natural habitat where they are often exposed to strong currents. They also need high lighting conditions to support their photosynthetic symbionts, zooxanthellae, which provide them with the majority of their nutritional needs. However, they can also capture plankton and small fish with their nematocysts. Stable water quality and calcium levels are crucial for their growth.

Symbiosis

Millepora complanata does not have the same type of symbiotic relationships with fish or invertebrates as some other corals do. However, its presence in the reef contributes to the overall ecosystem by providing structure and habitat for various marine organisms.

Habitat

This species is commonly found in the Caribbean Sea and the western Atlantic Ocean. It prefers shallow waters, often forming colonies on reef crests and fore-reef slopes where wave action is prevalent.