BIOTIC Species Information for Caryophyllia smithii
Researched byPaul Gregory Data supplied byMarLIN
Refereed byThis information is not refereed.
Distribution and Habitat
Distribution in Britain & IrelandFound from Shetland, north eastern England, the south west, Wales, Ireland and north western Scotland.
Global distributionAbundant around south west Europe and the Mediterranean and also found in Denmark (Hayward & Ryland, 1995b; Tendal & Nielsen, 1997).
Biogeographic rangeNot researched Depth rangeCaryophyllia smithii var clavus can be found at >1000 m depth (Manuel, 1988).
MigratoryNon-migratory / Resident   
Distribution Additional InformationNone entered

Substratum preferencesBedrock
Large to very large boulders
Cobbles
Other species (see additional information)
Physiographic preferences
Biological zone Wave exposure
Tidal stream strength/Water flow Salinity
Habitat Preferences Additional InformationIt is found on hard bits in sandy areas, mud between boulders etc. (Wilson, 1975). The upper limit of Caryophyllia smithii var clavus is determined by water turbulence as this form is susceptible to dislodgement due to its narrow base. However, free living forms are often found on the seabed as a result of such breakage (Manuel, 1988). Generally smaller size with increased sedimentation although taller height to escape smothering (Bell & Turner, 2000).
Distribution References Hayward & Ryland, 1995b, Hayward et al., 1996, Gibson et al., 2001, Howson & Picton, 1999, Manuel, 1988, Manuel, 1983, Hiscock & Howlett, 1976, Tendal & Nielsen, 1997, Wilson, 1975, Fish & Fish, 1996,
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