Polyps are solitary, free-living (except for juveniles) and flat, with a central mouth. Septa have large lobed teeth. Polyps are among the largest of all corals. Tentacles are extended day and night and are long, similar to those of giant anemones. There is one mouth up to 30 millimetres wide. Colour: Pale or dark blue-green or grey tentacles with white or pink tips. The oral disc is striped. Similar species: Heliofungia skeletons are similar to those of Fungia although the lobed teeth are distinctive. Fungia polyps have short tapering tentacles. Heliofungia tentacles resemble those of the euphyllid Euphyllia glabrescens but are larger.
Family:
Fungiidae
Genus:
Heliofungia
Habitat:
Soft Substrate
Distribution:
Widespread
Abundance:
Common
Source Reference:
Veron (2000). Taxonomic references: Veron and Pichon (1980), Hoeksema (1989). Identification guides: Veron (1986), Nishihira and Veron (1995).
3 Popular Wreck Diving Sites in Britain cont
by Ian Scott
Another phenomenal dive spot is located on the south coast of England, in the waters of Sussex. The Alaunia, a steamship sunk by a German mine in 1916, is one of the more popular diving destinations on the south coast. Although the wreck is considerably broken up, there are still significant parts of the ship left intact. Be on the lookout for a series of portholes to help navigate the site. If you can manage to find the bridge area, you will undoubtedly be pleased to find the anchor still hanging from its chain. The size of the wreck is overwhelming to some degree, and it would take a few separate dives to explore the entire ship. Shoals of bib, spider crabs, and massive lobsters are sure to keep you entertained. See if you can spot a dead man's fingers while you are down there.
Another extremely popular dive is located near Plymouth, where the wreck of the steamship Maine found its final resting place. It can be found approximately a mile off Bolt Head. It was highly noticeable for a number of years, as the masts of the ship broke the surface of the water. The wreck has since been cleared of its mast, with most of the debris swept to its port side. It rests in water that is approximately 30 meters deep. The ship was torpedoed in March of 1917 and, after a noble rescue effort, came to rest in waters within easy reach from Salcombe. While this would be an amazing exploration for any diver, it is not recommended for novice divers due to the strong current. There is a good representation of undersea life, and this destination is sure please anyone who visits. part one
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from its chain. The size of the wreck is overwhelming to some degree, and it would take a few separate dives to explore the entire ship. Shoals of bib, spider crabs, and massive lobsters are sure to keep you entertained. See if you can spot a dead man's fingers while you are down there.
