Finger Coral

Porites compressa

Porites compressa, commonly referred to as Finger coral, is a species of stony coral found in the tropical regions of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. In shallow waters, it often appears as a knobbly boulder, while in deeper waters, it takes on a more columnar shape. The branches are cylindrical and have a tendency to fuse together, forming large colonies that can be up to 1000 years old. This coral species has a pale brown or grey coloration. Finger coral is prevalent in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea and along the East African coast. It is particularly common around Hawaii, where it thrives on coral reefs and in lagoons at depths of up to 30 meters. In Kaneohe Bay, it is the dominant coral species, sometimes forming extensive monospecific stands. Porites compressa is a zooxanthellate coral, meaning it has symbiotic zooxanthellae in its tissues that provide it with energy through photosynthesis. It is more resistant to bleaching than many other coral species but is susceptible to coral diseases, especially when stressed. The IUCN has assessed this species as Least Concern, though it faces threats from rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and human activities.