Can anyone identify these?

[Mmadchef808]

Hi I'm new to the forum and I find these occasionally on the beach.  What are these? Thanks for your help.

[Emma]

Hello!

Welcome to the forum! They look like pieces of coral (maybe brain coral?) to me.

Warm regards,

Emma.

[Emma]

On second thought, they could be erchins. What does the under side look like?

Emma.

[Mmadchef808]

Its completely flat on the other side. They show up a lot too. I was thinking coral too but because they were flat on one side I didnt think so because it didnt look as if was broken off. Perplexing!!!

[Emma]

Well, you see, usually if they are an erchin they would be curved on the inside, not flat. What's more, I don't think they could be sea sponge because it's shape isn't so uniform. My best guess is that they are pieces of coral (maybe brain coral) and they might be flat on the other side due to wear and tear in the sea (like what happens in a river and makes stones smooth and round). This is my best guess! I'm sorry I can't help you further.

Best wishes,

Emma.

[Mmadchef808]

I found out they are!!! They are eroded cycloseris. Wow, they are beautiful when alive. So I guess they are corals or anemones.
Thanks!