Staghorn Coral

Tahitian names

Pukakana

Interesting facts

It is the most common specie in the shallow coral environment, on flats, or on fringing reefs. Its growth is very fast: 8 in/yr in some species. It grows in plates or in branches. It seeks light for its symbiotic algae and also consumes fine particles that the algae produce. It also eats small prey that are paralyzed by its singing cells or caught by its mucus net. It is the most abundant and important group of corals in the reef. It is sensitive and fragile. Avoid touching in order to not break them.

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