Description
Staghorn Branch Coral (Acropora Cervicornis) is a species of coral is found in coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific region, Western Atlantic along the coast of the US and Caribbean. This coral is given the name ‘Staghorn’ due to its branch, Antler appearance resemblance. This coral is one of the fastest growing corals and therefore plays an important role int he coral ecosystem, and coral restoration.
Habitat
Staghorn Branch Coral is found across coral reefs, and in shallow waters that has good sunlight. The coral inhabits water off the Western US coast and Caribbean in the Western Atlantic Ocean, and the Indo-Pacific region.
Diet
The Branch coral has a symbiotic relationship with single celled algae called Zooxanthellae. The algae lives within the coral’s tissues and provides energy from photosynthesis. In return the coral provides protection for the algae.
Appearance
Staghorn Branch Coral is a hard coral and easy to distinguish due to its branch, or Antler shapes. The branches are ridged and form in all directions. It can come in a variety of colours, from pale brown/yellow, to blues, purples, and greens.
Key Features
- Branch, tree like structure
- Can be seen in small patches or as large fields.
- Hard coral that can be a pale brown/yellow, green, purple, or blue..
Threats
IUCN Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
Frequently Asked Questions
Staghorn Branch Coral is found across coral reefs, and in shallow waters that has good sunlight. The coral inhabits water off the Western US coast and Caribbean in the Western Atlantic Ocean, and the Indo-Pacific region. You can see Staghorn coral in a single patch, or in a large field of the branch coral.
This species of Branch coral has a symbiotic relationship with single-celled algae called Zooxanthellae. The algae lives in the coral’s tissues and provides the coral energy from photosynthesis. This is why the coral requires adequate sunlight for photosynthesis. In return the coral provides protection for the algae.
Crown of Thorns Starfish are known to eat coral polyps and can threaten Staghorn coral. Parrotfish feed on algae, but can damage the coral if feeding on algae on the Branch coral.
Top threats to coral reef
