Elkhorn Coral [Acropora palmata]
Description
Elkhorn Coral is a critical reef-building species in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. These corals exhibit a branching pattern that resembles the antlers of an elk and can create dense thickets in very shallow water. They prefer clear water and locations where wave action is vigorous.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Jellyfish, Sea Anemones, and Relatives
Cnidaria
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Sea Anemones and Corals
Anthozoa
|
| Order |
Stony Corals
Scleractinia
|
| Family |
Acroporidae
Acroporidae
|
| Genus |
Acropora
Acropora
|