Learning Zone

Sunset cup coral - Leptopsammia pruvoti

Leptopsammia pruvoti

Image Sue Scott - Leptopsammia pruvoti. Image width ca 3 cm.
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Distribution map

Leptopsammia pruvoti recorded (dark blue bullet) and expected (light blue bullet) distribution in Britain and Ireland (see below)

Why do the maps differ?

Sightings Have you seen Leptopsammia pruvoti?
If so please submit your record.

  • CITES
  • UK_BAP

Key identification features Key identification features

  • Bright yellow sea-anemone like polyp, sometimes with an orange disc.
  • Polyp up to 3cm in diameter.
  • Stony skeleton about the size of a small thimble.

Habitat Habitat

  • Vertical or overhanging bedrock and caves. Found below the kelp forest depth.

Species facts Species facts

  • A Rare species. Records are important.
  • Host for a barnacle that occurs only on cup corals.
  • Probably long lived (up to 100 years).
  • Included in UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Want to read more?

Have a look at the intermediate review or the advanced review.

Sightings Have you seen a sunset cup coral? If so please submit your record.