Massive coral with brain-like ridge-and-groove patterns. Builds the structural foundation of many Caribbean reefs.

Also called: Symmetrical Brain Coral, Diploria

Native status: Native to Caribbean

§ Quick facts

SizeColonies 0.5–2 m diameter
WeightN/A (colonial)
LifespanColonies 200–900 years; among the longest-lived animals on Caribbean reefs
OrderScleractinia
FamilyMussidae

§ Encyclopedia

Brain coral is a common name given to various corals in the families Mussidae and Merulinidae, so called due to their generally spheroid shape and grooved surface which resembles a brain. Each head of coral is formed by a colony of genetically identical polyps which secrete a hard skeleton of calcium carbonate; this makes them important coral reef builders like other stony corals in the order Scleractinia. Brain corals are found in shallow warm water coral reefs in all the world's oceans. They are part of the phylum Cnidaria, in a class called Anthozoa or "flower animals". The lifespan of the largest brain corals is 900 years. Colonies can grow as large as 1.8 m (6 ft) or more in height.

Source: Wikipedia — Brain coral Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Massive round-domed coral with maze of meandering ridges and valleys covering the surface; tan to yellow-brown; surface tentacles extend at night.

Similar species. Boulder Brain Coral (smaller ridges). Symmetrical Brain Coral (different ridge pattern). Other Caribbean brain coral species.

Voice. N/A

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Filter-feeds plankton at night with extended polyp tentacles; symbiotic algae provide most daytime energy.

Behavior. Among the slowest-growing and longest-lived reef-building corals — large brain coral colonies are often 500+ years old. Distinctive maze-like ridges and grooves give the species its common name. Critical habitat structure for many reef fish, mollusks, and invertebrates. Threatened by coral bleaching (associated with marine heatwaves), ocean acidification, white-plague disease, and physical damage from storms and humans.

§ Range

Caribbean

§ Habitat

Caribbean reefs

§ Threats

Coral bleaching, ocean acidification, disease.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the brain coral (caribbean) is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support coral reef protection. Reduce ocean acidification.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program
  • National Park Service Biscayne
  • IUCN Red List 2008