Classification:

• Phylum: Cnidaria
• Class: Anthozoa
• Order: Stolonifera
• Genus: Tubipora

Comments:

1. 1. Tubipora is a marine colonial polypoid Actinozoa.
2. 2. Tubipora is found in shallow waters of tropical and temperate regions.
3. 3. Tubipora is commonly known as organ pipe coral.
4. 4. Colony consists of long parallel upright polyps enclosed in vertical skeleton tubules arising from a basal plate.
5. 5. The polyps are united at definite intervals by transverse or horizontal platforms which are formed by the fusion of spicules
6. 6. The skeleton consists of a mass of closely erect tubes united at spaced levels by transverse platforms.
7. 7. The skeleton is internal as it is covered by ectoderm in living condition.
8. 8. The mesoglea spicules become closely fitted together and form a continuous tube for each polyp.
9. 9. The polyps are green in colour, but the skeleton becomes dull red due to the presence of iron salts.
10. 10. Reproduction is asexual by budding.

Source:

1. Practical Zoology Invertebrates by S.S.Lal. 2. A Manual of Practical Zoology Chordates by Dr. P.S. Verma.