Devil's hand coral

Biology

Corals in this genus form encrusting colonies, which may project somewhat, and can reach one metre in diameter. They are soft corals that have lobed projections, which tend to fold or create finger-like extensions or lobes. Its polyps are small, resembling small tufts, which retract after capturing food.

Conservation

Coral reefs around the world are in danger. The major threat to corals is global climate change, high temperatures and ocean acidification. Localized threats to corals include fisheries, invasive species, dynamite fishing, chemical fishing, pollution, sedimentation, and human recreation and tourism activities.