Corals

Definition of Corals as it relates to Animals, Zoo Animals, Wildlife

Corals are marine invertebrates belonging to the class Anthozoa and phylum Cnidaria, characterized by their calcium carbonate skeletons and symbiotic relationship with microscopic algae called zooxanthellae. They form the foundation of coral reef ecosystems, which are among the most biodiverse habitats on Earth, providing shelter, breeding grounds, and food for a wide variety of organisms. Corals exist in various shapes, sizes, and colors, ranging from branching to massive structures, and can be found in both shallow and deep waters. They reproduce either sexually or asexually, with some species releasing large quantities of eggs and sperm into the water during mass spawning events. Despite their important ecological role, corals are facing numerous threats such as ocean acidification, climate change, pollution, and overfishing, leading to widespread bleaching and reef degradation.

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