Cauliflower corals  (Pocillopora spp.)

This hardy, widespread and common coral can easily be identified by the presence of wart-like growths, called verrucae, which cover the colonies (2). The colonies can be fairly solid and dome-shaped, or branching with branches that are either flattened and blade-like, or fine and irregular (3). Species of Pocillopora corals vary greatly in appearance, depending on environmental conditions. For example, species situated on shallow reefs with heavy wave action are often stunted, whilst those in deep water are thin and open. The tentacles born on each polyp are usually only extended at night (2).