About Millepora complanata Lamarck, 1816
Millepora complanata is a species of fire coral, which are colonial coral-like organisms that secrete calcareous skeletons. Colonies of this species have an encrusting base, with thin upright plates or blades that grow to about 50 centimetres (20 inches) in height. The blades of Millepora complanata grow perpendicular to the direction of the current; if the current is too strong, some colonies never grow larger than their encrusted base. The surface of the blades is smooth, and their outer margins are irregular with many stumpy protrusions. This fire coral is pale brown or cream in colour, and the tips of its blades are white. Its feeding and defensive polyps are hair-like, and project through fine pores on the blade surface. Contact with this fire coral on bare skin can cause a severe stinging sensation. Millepora complanata has a widespread distribution in the Caribbean Sea. It most often grows in areas with vigorous water movement and turbid waters, and is tolerant of siltation.
