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Critically EndangeredAquarium Suitable
Staghorn Coral
Acropora cervicornis
Also known as: Elkhorn Coral
Staghorn Coral is a critically endangered species that was once the dominant reef-builder in the Caribbean. Populations have declined over 80% since the 1980s due to disease and bleaching.
Max Size
6 feet (1.8 m) height
Lifespan
50-100+ years
Depth
1-30 meters
Water Type
saltwater
Scientific Classification
- Class
- Hexacorallia
- Order
- Scleractinia
- Family
- Acroporidae
- Species
- Acropora cervicornis
Habitat & Distribution
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs
Distribution
CaribbeanFloridaBahamas
Behavior
Staghorn corals form dense thickets that provide shelter for countless reef species. They are fast-growing but fragile, easily broken by storms.
Reproduction
Reproduce through broadcast spawning and fragmentation. Fragments that break off can reattach and grow into new colonies.
Aquarium Care Guide
Minimum Tank Size
75 gallons
Care Level
Difficult
Temperament
Peaceful
Temperature
76°F - 82°F
Diet
Photosynthetic + planktivore
Conservation Status
Critically EndangeredPopulation trend: decreasing
Main Threats
- Climate change
- Disease
- Ocean acidification
- Hurricanes
🎉 Fun Facts
- Once the most common coral in the Caribbean
- Can grow 4-8 inches per year - fast for coral
- Provides habitat for hundreds of fish species
- Listed under the Endangered Species Act
- Restoration programs are growing new colonies
