Coral Basics

Coral Basics

We have talked about coral at the University before, but we thought it would be good to have a refresher about these amazing tiny animals.

Coral Fun Facts:

• Each animal is attached to the next by a hard exoskeleton.
• The large coral colonies are fixed to one spot. The individual animals can pull their tentacles into their exoskeleton for protection.
• They have tentacles with stinging cells that help them catch their prey!
• Coral are related to jellies and anemones.
• Coral share their homes with zooxanthella  (zō′ə-zăn-thĕl′ə), a type of algae. The zooxanthella and coral polyp help each other survive.
• The coral provide a home for the zooxanthella and the zooxanthella provide oxygen and nutrients for the coral.
• The zooxanthella also give the corals their colors!
• Because the zooxanthella need sun to make energy (photosynthesis), coral reefs are located in shallow waters.
• As coral grow, they help build shelter for many kinds of animals in the reef. Those calcium carbonate bodies build the reef.
• Some fish, like parrotfish eat coral. The fish’s poop then becomes sand. Much of the sand in the Caribbean is parrotfish poop!
• You can often see new growth on a coral by seeing the white tips!

Now that we all know more about corals! We will get our diving equipment ready for exploring these amazing habitats!