Species · GBIF taxon 5184681
Staghorn Coral
Acropora cervicornisStaghorn corals form vast, tangled underwater forests of golden-brown branches that resemble the antlers of a stag. These fast-growing colonies provide critical, three-dimensional shelter for hundreds of reef fish and invertebrate species in shallow Caribbean waters. They reproduce both sexually through synchronized spawning events and asexually when broken branches reattach to the seafloor to start new colonies.
Reef-BuildingFast-GrowingMarine
- diet
- Photosynthetic zooxanthellae and plankton
- family
- Acroporidae
- threats
- Climate change, ocean acidification, coral bleaching, and white band disease
- life Span
- Colonies can live for decades through continuous skeletal growth
CR
Safe to observe from a distance; avoid touching to protect the fragile skeleton.
Staghorn coral populations have declined by over 97 percent since the 1980s due to disease, bleaching, and storm damage.
Never touch, anchor near, or kick up sediment around these colonies, and support local reef restoration efforts.- Maintain buoyancy: Keep a respectful distance of at least two meters to prevent accidental contact with fragile branches.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen: Chemical sunscreens can cause bleaching; opt for mineral-based alternatives instead.
- Look for nurseries: Scan the branches for juvenile grunts, snappers, and damselfish seeking shelter.