Types of coral in the great barrier reef

Discover over hard coral and + soft coral species in the Great Barrier Reef. Learn about staghorn, brain, table coral and more in this comprehensive guide to reef biodiversity.
Coral classification in the great barrier reef: hard corals vs soft corals

The most common coral species in the great barrier reef and their characteristics

Staghorn Coral (Acropora spp.) dominates large areas of the Great Barrier Reef, earning its position as the most prevalent hard coral species. These distinctive corals get their name from the branching pattern that resembles a deer’s antlers.

types of coral in the great barrier reef

What are the main types of coral found in the great barrier reef ecosystem

Discover over hard coral and + soft coral species in the Great Barrier Reef. Learn about staghorn, brain, table coral and more in this comprehensive guide to reef biodiversity. Discover the types of coral on the Great Barrier Reef, including hard coral, soft coral, coral bommies, and reef structures. Learn how coral forms and supports reef life.

Great barrier reef coral diversity: rare and endangered coral types

  • How climate change affects different coral types in the great barrier reef

    This report summarises the status (percentage of coral cover) of reefs in the Northern, Central and Southern Great Barrier Reef (GBR) following the mass coral bleaching event. Data were collected during manta surveys on reefs by the Long-Term Monitoring Program (LTMP) between August and May (reported as ‘’).

    Protecting coral species in the great barrier reef: conservation efforts and strategies

    Climate change is the biggest threat for the Great Barrier Reef, and reefs worldwide. Other key threats include poor water quality, fishing impacts on protected and threatened species, marine debris and crown-of-thorns starfish are taking increased action on climate change and investing in initiatives to protect and build the resilience of the Reef Long-Term.



    What are the main types of coral found in the great barrier reef ecosystem

      Coral classification in the great barrier reef: hard corals vs soft corals

      The Great Barrier Reef is home to more than species of hard and soft corals, ranging from delicate branching types like staghorn coral to massive boulder corals.