Introduction to Marine Biology

Start with growth form

Branching, massive (boulder-shaped), plating, and encrusting types respond differently to waves and light. Sketching the outline before naming a species helps you avoid mixing up look-alikes.

Use polyp clues

Day vs. night feeders often show different textures: some keep tentacles tucked until dark; others show fuzzy crowns in sunlight. Note mouth size, spacing, and whether polyps share walls.

Color is a hint, not proof

Bleaching and algae film change apparent color fast. Pair what you see with structure—ridge spacing, corallite shape, and tip taper—before relying on hue alone.

• Photograph with a scale object when permitted.
• Record depth and light direction for context.
• Cross-check with Coral Anatomy terms from the companion reading.

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