Object Literature
Acropora is a genus of small polyp stony coral in the Phylum Cnidaria. Some of its species are known as table coral, elkhorn coral and staghorn coral. Acropora displays an amazing array of forms and, with over 135 species, it is the most species rich hard coral genus and it is one of the major reef corals responsible for building the immense calcium carbonate substructure that supports the thin living skin of a reef. It is most common in shallow reef environments with bright light and moderate to high water motion. Environmental destruction has led to a dwindling of populations of Acropora, along with other coral species. The 3-D structure of this coral provides a rich habitat for a wide range of other reef creatures including crabs, brittle stars and fish. Branching colonies grow from the axial corallites and can rapidly take over space with their lightly built skeletons. Despite their delicate appearance they are common on upper reef slopes where damage caused by wave action can disperse colony fragments which regrow asexually.
During the nineteenth century pieces of coral that were too large for the cabinet were sometimes placed under glass domes like this one to enhance their decorative appeal and to prevent them from gathering dust. Sometimes shells and other adornments were added.
True wonders of the natural world.
• From the 149 species of acropora this particular sub -pecies is probably listed CITES, and may require re-export permits. If you are interested and are not in the UK please check domestic legislation and import controls for your region before buying.