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''Madrepora oculata'', also called zigzag coral, is a Scleractinia (stony coral) that is found worldwide outside of the polar regions, growing in deep water at depths of 80–1500 meters. It was first described by Linnaeus in 1758.〔 〕 It is one of only 12 species of coral that are found worldwide, including in Subantarctic oceans.〔 〕 In some areas, such as in the Mediterranean Sea and the North-east Atlantic Ocean, it dominates communities of coral.〔"ukp"/> ==Description== The species is quite variable in its tendency to branch, its texture and color and other aspects, even within specimens in the same coral colony.〔 〕 It is bushy, growing in small colonies that form thickets, creating matrices that are fan-shaped and about 30 to 50 cm high. It has thick skeletal parts that grow in a lamellar pattern.〔 〕 As its skeleton is fragile and unable to sustain a large framework, it is usually found among stronger coral, such as ''Lophelia pertusa'' and ''Goniocorella dumosa'', that offer protection. In areas where it dominates, it is usually found in rubble and debris rather than in coral reefs.〔"ukp">(【引用サイトリンク】title=What is ''Madrepora oculata''? )〕 ''Madrepora oculata'' produces large amounts of mucus that is extracellular or outside the cell membranes. The mucus acts in a protective capacity to shield the coral skeleton from attacks of destructive pests. 〔 抄文引用元・出典: フリー百科事典『 ウィキペディア（Wikipedia）』 ■ウィキペディアで「Madrepora oculata」の詳細全文を読む スポンサード リンク
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