The fire coral are often found in topical and subtropical waters. They appear to look like true corals but they are more similar to hydrozoans. The fire coral has the simplest of nervous systems. It does not have a brain but relies on neurons that communicate by passing each other. The neurons pass the information throughout the whole coral through this passing of each other. This allows the coral to have a sense of touch and be able to recognize its prey.
|
Fun factFire corals like most Cnidarians carry nematocysts that are a toxin used to paralyze its prey (plankton), but if people brush against this coral they also are affected by this toxin and get a harsh burning feeling hence the name fire coral. Scientists have found that acids such as vinegar immediately soothe and stop the effects of the nematocyst.
|