Acropora hemprichii

Acropora hemprichii is a coral species known for forming colonies with tightly packed branches that can be either flat or oriented upwards. These branches range in diameter from 12 to 30 millimeters and can extend up to 80 millimeters in length. The colonies themselves can grow to more than 2 meters wide. Typically, the coral exhibits a brown or pink-brown hue, with rounded axial corallites and large, cone-shaped radial corallites. It is commonly found in shallow marine settings, particularly on coral reefs at depths of 3 to 15 meters. This coral is distributed in specific regions, including the Gulf of Aden, Red Sea, Philippines, and Indian Ocean. While bleaching has impacted it, especially in the southern Red Sea, the northern Red Sea populations have shown some resilience, with a relatively low percentage of reefs being lost in recent decades. Composed of aragonite, Acropora hemprichii can have a lifespan ranging from 13 to 24 years. Reproduction in Acropora hemprichii is hermaphroditic, with gametes released into the coelenteron and then through the mouth. The life cycle includes a planktonic planula larva stage that undergoes metamorphosis before settling. This species is classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List, facing threats from disease, bleaching, fishing activities, and human development. It is also listed on CITES Appendix II.