Plate-like Corals

True to their name, plate-like corals resemble thin discs or plates, much like bracket fungi growing on rotting logs! Sometimes these “plates” are horizontal, or facing parallel to the ground. But other times these “plates” can be growing vertically or in a slanted manner, like plates drying on a dishrack! In some plate-like corals, their “plates” may even be curved and may look more like bowls or cups rather than plates. They can even be folded upon each other like origami, forming many ruffles and patterns!

Due to their plate-like structure, plate-like corals have a large body area to capture sunlight for photosynthesis. This means they can survive even in the deepest and darkest parts of the coral reef! Also, as their bodies are so wide and broad, they can provide shelter for many reef organisms, making them indispensable members of the coral reef ecosystem!