This is a large group with several genera that have been recently split into five families.  Positive identification of many species is impossible without skeletal examination.  Most are encrusting or massive with large circular or hexagonal calices and strong septal walls, others are brain-like with indistinct calices within sinuous valleys.  They occupy a variety of habitats from estuaries and lagoons to clear outer reefs.

All coral skeletons illustrated are from scientific collections taken prior to 1998.

FAVIA

SYMMETRICAL BRAIN CORAL

BOULDER BRAIN CORAL

KNOBBY BRAIN CORAL

GROOVED BRAIN CORAL

SMOOTH STAR CORAL

GOLFBALL CORAL

Isophyllia rigida

RIGID CACTUS CORAL

Isophyllia sinuosa

SINUOUS CACTUS CORAL

SPINY FLOWER CORAL

ARTICHOKE CORAL

Mycetophyllia ferox

ROUGH CACTUS CORAL

LOW-RIDGE CACTUS CORAL

KNOBBY CACTUS CORAL

RIDGED CACTUS CORAL

ROSE CORAL