Spread of the invasive corals, Tubastraea coccinea and T. tagusensis, towards the lower intertidal zones of southeastern Brazil

Abstract

Photographs were obtained of two invasive species of sun corals (Tubastraea tagusensis and Tubastraea coccinea) covering rocky substrates, in Ilha Grande Bay, Rio de Janeiro/Brazil, that are exposed, out of seawater, during low tide. The images highlight secretion of mucus, distention of tentacles, and partial loss of soft tissue.