Description
Blue coral (Hellopora coerulea), found in shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region, and popular in coral reef ecosystems. The coral has a distinctive branch structure, with a brown colouration, jagged shape, with a white, blue, green colouration at the ridge.
Habitat
Blue coral is found in shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region. The shallow waters are required for sunlight for photosynthesis.
Diet
Blue coral has a symbiotic relationship with algae that lives in it’s tissues. The Algae provides energy and nutrients from photosynthesis. The coral also has small stinging tentacles that feed on plankton organisms in the water column.
Appearance
The coral has a brown colouration, and a white and blue ridge at the top of each branch.
Key Features
- Blue, green, white hue at the ridge of each branch.
- Branch structure, each branch either cylindrical or flattened vertically.
- Knobbly and bumpy surface.
Threats
IUCN Conservation Status: Vulnerable
Frequently Asked Questions
Blue coral is found in shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region. The shallow waters are required for sunlight for photoshynthesis.
Blue coral has a symbiotic relationship with algae that lives in it’s tissues. The Algae provides energy and nutrients from photosynthesis. The coral also has small stinging tentacles that feed on plankton organisms in the water column.
