Need ID on RED SPS

[littlebuck]

I got this today and want to know what it is.

 

[nycbob]

looks like some sort of encrusting coral.

 

[littlebuck]

http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/1306/1000941wg3.jpg

 

[trippkid]

I am not sure, possibly Pavona maldivensis, that's the closest thing I can come up with. Just by looking I'd say that is it or very close. Sorry I can't say for sure, but almost positive.
Matt

 

[littlebuck]

well thanks. hard to know really could be a few things. either that Pavona or a Astreopora.

 

[trippkid]

I couldn't think of the other name(thanks), I think it is the Astreopora, I found some pics that look exactly like it. Good luck with it, looks like a nice piece.

Matt

 

[littlebuck]

Thanks, Looks awsome. Cant wait to see what it looks like when the polyps come out.

 

[jonthefishguy]

It is a Montiastrea annularis aka moon coral. Too easy...lol

 

[littlebuck]

Nope its not a moon coral. DOsent look anything like one

 

[jonthefishguy]

It Is A Moon Coral

 

[littlebuck]

and why do you say that? just wondering because i have heard other things.

 

[viper_930]

It's Astreopora sp., and I'd say Astreopora myriophthalma.

 

[jonthefishguy]

Because 1, I am looking right at it on my order list and 2, I am looking at it (that particular species as a matter of fact) in a book and it is labeled MONTASTREA ANNULARIS aka MOON CORAL AKA STAR CORAL. addition after 6of us just looked at this species posted in your pic, we have ALL come to conclusion that due to the CRATER & DOT texture VS. the CRATOR and SLOPE texture, it is an ASTREOPORA sp. as VIPER said. Goes to show that this species has to be identified in detail because of its similarities. However that said, ASTREOPORA is STILL a MOON CORAL.

 

[viper_930]

It's for sure not M. annularis. The coralites on montastreas have much more pronounced rays while astreoporas' are covered with papillae like the one Littlebuck posted.

 

[littlebuck]

I dont have a clue alot of people have said astreopora, And i think im gonig to stick with that. Any idea what the go for a peice that size? its 6X4 and totally coverd. Want to see if i made a good investment or not.

 

[jonthefishguy]

Things are ONLY WORTH what someone is willing to pay. Some will say one item is too expensive and some will say it is a bargain. That all depends on the individual. In order to know whether what you bought was worth it, ask yourself this, DO I LIKE IT, DID I WANT IT, DOES IT LOOK COOL IN MY TANK? If the answer to all 3 is YES, then it was worth the money you paid regardless of what it cost.

 

[littlebuck]

well thats true.