True coral

Biology

Inch by inch, true coral polyps build impressive structures, which over the years may reach over half a meter. The yellow-orange look of the structure contrasts sharply with the pristine white polyps and this gives it a very striking look. Their branches grow in all directions, making these colonies look like candelabra.

Conservation

Large colonies of this coral are increasingly rare, due to their collection for trade and the use of increasingly large fishing nets that damage the coral structure.

Curiosities

When out of the water, the coral exudes a distinctive anise-like odour, which is why, in certain regions, its common name is “anise coral”.