Elkhorn coral grows in a branching, tree-like form, with each branch resembling the « horns of an elk », which is how it got its name. Another coral from the same family also resembles animal horns, the staghorn coral. Elkhorn coral is a large species with imposing branches that can reach over 6.5 feet in length.
Elkhorn coral grows in a branching, tree-like form, with each branch resembling the horns of an elk, hence its name
Range
Elkhorn coral is endemic to the central western Atlantic ocean. It can be found in the Caribbean sea, the Gulf of Mexico and along the coasts of Florida and the Bahamas.
Habitat
Elkhorn coral thrives in shallow tropical waters where light is crucial for its symbiotic partners, the zooxanthellae. It is one of the key pillars of the reef ecosystem.
Diet
Like all corals, elkhorn coral is a carnivore that primarily feeds on zooplankton, which it captures with its tentacles equipped with numerous stinging cells that harpoon and paralyze its prey.
Elkhorn coral is a large coral species with imposing branches that can reach over 6.5 feet in length
Elkhorn coral has been listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species since 2008. It is classified as a critically endangered coral species !
However, zooplankton is scarce in shallow tropical waters, so elkhorn coral relies on its valuable allies, the zooxanthellae, to meet its energy needs. These microscopic algae live in symbiosis with the coral, providing it with nutrients and oxygen through photosynthesis.
Reproduction
Elkhorn coral reproduces sexually with massive releases of male and female gametes. From fertilization and egg development, tiny planktonic larvae are produced. After a brief pelagic life, the larvae settle on the reef and transform into polyps. The first polyp then divides asexually to form an entire colony.
If a branch of elkhorn coral breaks, it can become the site of a new colony's development.
Did you know ?
Like most corals, elkhorn coral relies partly on the energy and oxygen provided by its symbiotic zooxanthellae.
Similar to the annual growth rings of trees visible in a tree trunk’s cross-section, the age of corals can be determined by examining the growth rings of the coral branch.
Elkhorn coral has been listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species since 2008. It is classified as « critically endangered » due to a more than 80% reduction in its presence over the past 30 years !
The Acroporidae family includes the most important coral species in reef formation.
Tips for observing
With its imposing branches and characteristic bushy form, elkhorn coral stands out from the rest of the reef ! So keep an eye out and take in a panoramic view of the entire reef !
Due to the impressive size of its branches and its characteristic bushy form, elkhorn coral stands out from the rest of the reef !
The plumose sea anemone is a key species in temperate and cold marine ecosystems. Its high adaptability, morphological diversity and reproductive strategies make it a crucial organism for understanding biological and ecological interactions in marine environments.
Saturday, March 22nd 2025
World Water Day 2025 | Save the glaciers
Glaciers are essential for drinking water, agriculture, industry, clean energy, and ecosystem preservation. However, their rapid melting threatens these vital resources, making it urgent to reduce carbon emissions and implement local strategies to protect these precious water reservoirs.
Friday, March 14th 2025
The narwhal
The narwhal is an Arctic cetacean well-known for its long, spiral tusk, which gives it a unique appearance. This cetacean is primarily found in the cold waters of the Arctic, where it lives in groups and is known for its seasonal migratory behaviors. The narwhal is of scientific interest due to its social behavior, biology and the mysteries surrounding the use of its tusk.
