VU

lesser knob coral

Cyphastrea hexasepta

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Lesser knob coral faces severe pressure from ocean warming and acidification, which cause bleaching events and reduce its ability to build calcium carbonate skeletons. Coastal development and sedimentation from land-based activities smother coral colonies and reduce water quality in shallow reef environments. Destructive fishing practices and anchor damage from boats directly destroy coral colonies, while pollution from agricultural runoff creates nutrient imbalances that promote algal growth over coral recruitment.

Threat summary

Habitat

Lesser knob coral inhabits shallow tropical coral reefs and lagoons in the Indo-Pacific, typically found at depths of 1-20 meters on reef flats and slopes. It forms encrusting colonies on hard substrates in areas with moderate water flow and clear, nutrient-poor waters.

MARINE· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is lesser knob coral classified as Vulnerable?
lesser knob coral is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Lesser knob coral faces severe pressure from ocean warming and acidification, which cause bleaching events and reduce its ability to build calcium carbonate skeletons. Coastal development and sedimentation from land-based activities smother coral colonies and reduce water quality in shallow reef environments. Destructive fishing practices and anchor damage from boats directly destroy coral colonies, while pollution from agricultural runoff creates nutrient imbalances that promote algal growth over coral recruitment.
Where does lesser knob coral live?
lesser knob coral occurs in Saudi Arabia. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to lesser knob coral?
The main threats to lesser knob coral are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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