Quick answer
Corals (Anthozoa) are invertebrates found across multiple regions. The tiny reef-building animals of tropical seas. Adults typically weigh roughly 1 kg (2 lb), reach speeds of None; corals are fixed in place, and live Colonies can live decades to centuries. They feed on filter feeder plus algae symbionts and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Warm, shallow tropical seas worldwide, with the greatest diversity in the Indo-Pacific.
Key takeaway
Corals (Anthozoa) are invertebrates found across multiple regions. The tiny reef-building animals of tropical seas. Adults typically weigh roughly 1 kg (2 lb), reach speeds of None; corals are fixed in place, and live Colonies can live decades to centuries. They feed on filter feeder plus algae symbionts and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Warm, shallow tropical seas worldwide, with the greatest diversity in the Indo-Pacific.
Coral overview
Coral (Anthozoa) is a invertebrate listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight about 1 kg; lifespan around Colonies can live decades to centuries.
Coral ecology
Diet: Filter feeder plus algae symbionts. Habitat: Warm, shallow tropical seas worldwide. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Corals and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild corals are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Coral profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Corals inhabit Warm, shallow tropical seas worldwide, with the greatest diversity in the Indo-Pacific. Their preferred habitat includes warm, shallow tropical seas worldwide, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across multiple regions.
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult corals typically measure about 0.3 m in length and weigh roughly 1 kg (2 lb). They can sprint at None; corals are fixed in place when hunting or escaping predators. Corals are known for the tiny reef-building animals of tropical seas — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Coral FAQs
What are key facts about corals?
Corals (Anthozoa) are invertebrates found across multiple regions. The tiny reef-building animals of tropical seas. Adults typically weigh roughly 1 kg (2 lb), reach speeds of None; corals are fixed in place, and live Colonies can live decades to centuries. They feed on filter feeder plus algae symbionts and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Warm, shallow tropical seas worldwide, with the greatest diversity in the Indo-Pacific.
What is the scientific name of the coral?
Anthozoa — used in research and conservation listings for corals.
What do corals eat?
Corals are filter feeders that also rely on algae symbionts, with seasonal and regional variation in Warm, shallow tropical seas worldwide.
Where do corals live?
They are associated with Warm, shallow tropical seas worldwide. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of corals?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.