Large polyp stony coral identification request

[ironclad9]

Bought this LPS as a single polyp about 2 years back, and it's developed into a nice little colony over time. I vaguely recall it being from the Atlantic, but that's about it - can't seem to remember any other specifics. Haven't come across a similar one since then. Any ID thoughts would be appreciated, thanks

[zenoxa]

Looking at the growth pattern and polyp shape, I'd say it's likely a Tubastrea species, possibly a Tubastrea coccinea or something similar, but I've never seen one with this exact coloration before, so I'm not entirely sure.

[ironclad9]

I'd rule out Tubastrea due to the lack of a hard skeleton. The fluorescent green inside each corallite is a notable feature, though it's not easily visible from the picture.

[zenoxa]

It's more like a soft, pliable mass than a hard skeleton. I'm fairly certain there's no internal framework or structure, at least not one that I can feel or see.

[zenoxa]

I went through my reef books and stumbled upon a picture of Montastrea cavernosa that caught my eye - it looks pretty similar to mine. Did a quick search and found this link that seems like a good match.

http://www.arkive.org/great-star-coral/ ... cavernosa/

[ironclad9]

Thanks so much, zenoxa - I think you nailed it. I really appreciate you taking the time to dig through your books and find that match. The Montastrea cavernosa looks like a great fit.