Description

Also known as Carpet Zoanthid, Encrusting Zoanthid, Fluorescent Coralcrust Anemone, Grey Colonial Zoanthid, Pillow Zoanthid, Rubber Coral, Rubber Zoanthid, Sea Mat Zoanthid, Tuberculose Button Polyp, Zoo's Rubber Coral.

Found in colonies, engulfing rocks and rubble, over shallow surge zones, of lagoons and reef slopes.
They feed on zooplankton.
Length - 40cm
Depth - 0-20m
Widespread Indo-Pacific

Most often zoanthids look like small sea anemones.
This encrusting species has a sandy leathery feel unlike its soft-bodied relatives.
Zoanthids can be very toxic, it is believed that Hawaiian warriors used to dip their spearheads into the juices of zoanthids. Ref: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palythoa