Elkhorn coral colonies are incredibly fast growing with an average growth rate of 5 to 10 centimetres (2.0 to 3.9 in) per year and can eventually grow up to 3.7 metres (12 ft) in diameter. For example Benzoni, Stefani, Pichon et al. Note on a closely related species: The elkhorn coral’s sister species, the Staghorn Coral (Acropora cervicornis) is similar in appearance, biology, and ecology and is another ecosystem engineer on Caribbean reefs. Grooved Brain Coral. Size: Colony 3 to 12 ft. (1 to 4 m)

More towns and resorts near shore mean more sewage, oil and chemicals in the water. Elkhorn coral is a tropical species and inhabits waters with a temperature range of 66 tol 86 degrees F. This coral tolerates salinities within the normal range of 33 to 37 parts per thousand. Soft Corals continued in Coral Identification: Types Of Coral (Part 1)

The colonies can build large domes or more encrusting forms along the sea floor.

The staghorn coral is listed as a candidate species for the Endangered Species Act of 1973 due to its recent decrease in range. Coral reefs around the world are in danger. The branches of the elkhorn coral are flat and broad, resembling the antlers of elk or moose. Elkhorn Coral Its scientific name is Acropora palmata. Category: Stony Corals. Elkhorn Coral – Acropora palmata. A popular choice as a home for lobsters, parrot-fish, snappers and other reef fish. Order: Scleractinia. In direct response to the Center’s work in 2006, elkhorn and staghorn corals, became the first, and to date only, coral species protected under the Endangered Species Act–marking the first time the U.S. government acknowledged global warming as a primary threat to the survival of a species. Silt (fine soil) smothers coral when it washes off the land from farm fields, roads and building sites. Elkhorn is an intricate, relatively thin branching coral with an army green background and white growth tips and highlights on the coral body. The scientific name for grooved brain coral is Diploria labyrinthiformis. Florent's Guide To The Caribbean Reefs - Elkhorn Coral - Acropora palmata - Stony Corals - - Stony Corals - Caribbean, Bahamas, Florida - Florent's Guide To The Florida, Bahamas & Caribbean Reefs. (2010) retained the name Psammocora nierstraszi Van der Horst, 1921 although they found that Psammocora verrilli Vaughan, 1907 had priority, a procedure allowed by ICZN Article 23.9.3. Search for the wide, grooved ridges to identify this coral. The ORA Elkhorn produces very little to no polyp extension and generates a thick slime when bothered. Some recent authors have retained names in current use by suppressing older names. Unfortunately, it has recently suffered a similar fate and is also critically endangered. Elkhorn coral. Home; ... Scientific Name: Acropora palmata. Global warming and changes in weather patterns create conditions that corals … Scleractinia Bourne, 1900 – stony corals, madrépores : Suborder: Astrocoeniina Vaughan and Wells, 1943 Family: Acroporidae Verrill, 1902 Genus: Acropora Oken, 1815 Species: Acropora palmata (Lamarck, 1816) – elkhorn coral