Seas the Day!
“Conche”rvation Snapshot
Brain Coral
Brain corals, despite their name, are simple invertebrates related to jellyfish and sea anemones. They have a hard, rock-like exoskeleton made of calcium carbonate, forming spherical shapes. They are integral to coral reef communities, serving as the foundation due to their sturdy structure. Brain corals are part of the Cnidaria phylum, with living parts called polyps that excrete the calcium carbonate.
These corals can live up to 900 years and play a vital role in the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. They prefer clear, shallow water in tropical or subtropical regions. Polyps feed on zooplankton and benefit from a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae called zooxanthellae.
Some brain corals have a folded shape and can emit vibrant colors when exposed to UV, violet, or blue light, making them popular in saltwater aquariums. Overall, brain corals, though not intelligent, are crucial to coral reef ecosystems and showcase fascinating adaptations.