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National Ocean Service National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Home Education Corals How Do Stony Corals Grow?

Elkhorn corals

Branching Coral | Pillar Coral | Table Corals | Elkhorn Coral | Foliase Coral | Encrusting Coral | Massive Coral | Mushroom Coral

Elkhorn corals — Elkhorn corals are members of the family Acroporidae. They have a unique growth pattern with exceptionally thick and sturdy antler-like branches. Elkhorn corals are usually fast growing with branches increasing by 5-10 cm per year. This coral also typically lives in areas of high wave action.

Welcome What are corals? What is Zooxanthellae? How do corals grow? How do coral reefs form? Where are corals found? How do corals reproduce? Why are coral reefs important? What are the major threats to corals? - Climate change - Pollution - Diseases - Fishing impacts What are the other threats to corals? Protecting corals - Laws and partnerships Protecting corals - Protected places Restoring corals

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