Species · GBIF taxon 5184675
Table Coral
Acropora hyacinthusAlso known as Plate Coral, Hyacinth Table Coral, Brush Coral
Table corals form wide, flat, plate-like structures that maximize light capture for their symbiotic algae in shallow reef waters. These expansive tables provide critical shelter and nursery grounds for hundreds of reef fish species. During mass spawning events, colonies release millions of eggs and sperm simultaneously into the water column to be carried by ocean currents.
Reef-BuildingMarineEndangered
Licensed referenceNPS foto - Susanna Pershern / Public domain · cc0
- diet
- Photosynthetic zooxanthellae and plankton
- family
- Acroporidae
- threats
- Coral bleaching, ocean acidification, crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks, and storm damage
- life Span
- Decades to over a century
EN
Safe to observe at a normal distance while snorkeling or diving.
Highly vulnerable to rising ocean temperatures and ocean acidification, which cause catastrophic bleaching and structural weakening.
Never anchor boats on or near these colonies, and maintain a respectful distance while diving to avoid accidental contact.- Maintain buoyancy: Avoid touching or stepping on the fragile plates, which break easily under pressure.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen: Chemical sunscreens can cause bleaching; opt for mineral-based alternatives instead.
- Observe from above: Look down onto the flat tables to spot tiny crabs and fish hiding between the branches.