Knob Coral

Goniastrea stelligera

Knob Coral, scientifically known as Goniastrea stelligera, is a stony coral species belonging to the family Merulinidae. It is commonly found in the shallow waters along the coast of East Africa and throughout the Indo-Pacific region. This coral is known for its distinctive knob-like protrusions, which help divers identify it from other coral species. Knob Coral typically inhabits coral reefs and is often seen in areas where the water is less than 50 meters deep, with a significant number of occurrences recorded at depths shallower than 40 meters. While Knob Coral is a common species, its population appears to be on the decline. The primary threat to its survival is the destruction of coral reef habitats, compounded by its moderate susceptibility to coral bleaching. Despite these challenges, the species is currently classified as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Divers encountering Knob Coral can expect to find it forming part of the reef community. It is a sessile organism, meaning it remains fixed in one place, contributing to the structural complexity of coral reefs.