Staghorn coral is one of the most important reef-building corals in the Caribbean, historically forming vast underwater thickets that sheltered thousands of species. Coral colonies are actually composed of thousands of tiny individual polyps — genetically identical animals that secrete calcium carbonate skeletons. The symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae living within coral tissues provide up to 90% of the coral’s energy through photosynthesis.
About the Coral
Acropora cervicornis
Advertisement
⚡ Speed Comparison
📸 Photo Gallery
💡 Fun Facts
01
Coral reefs cover less than 1% of the ocean floor yet support approximately 25% of all marine species.
02
A coral polyp is an animal, not a plant — it catches zooplankton with stinging tentacles at night.
03
Staghorn coral can grow up to 20 cm per year, making it one of the fastest-growing corals in the Caribbean.
04
The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on Earth and is visible from space.
05
Coral bleaching occurs when water temperatures rise just 1–2°C above normal, causing the coral to expel its life-giving algae.
📍 Where to Find This Animal
Habitat Types:
Tropical Coral Reef
🛒 Coral Related Gear
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Join the Conversation
Share your thoughts about the Coral