Mainly photosynthetic products supplied by symbiotic zooxanthellae; it also captures small particles and zooplankton.
Reproduction
Oviparous
Identification marks
Compact clumps of thick, upright, finger-like branches, often slightly tapered. A distinct axial corallite occurs at branch tips; colours vary from cream-brown to bluish or purplish.
Similar species
It may be confused with Acropora gemmifera and Acropora humilis. Reliable identification requires examining branch and corallite shape; A. digitifera usually has thick, relatively regular finger-like branches.
Approach rules
Do not touch, break, or collect it. Maintain controlled buoyancy and enough distance to prevent contact, especially from fins. Do not feed; use flash sparingly and without bringing equipment close to the colony.
Protection
A stony coral listed in CITES Appendix II. Protection and collection restrictions may also vary under national regulations and within marine protected areas.
