Madracis decactis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Madracis decactis faces severe population decline primarily due to coral bleaching events triggered by rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification. The species is particularly vulnerable to white-band disease and other coral pathogens that have devastated Caribbean reef systems. Coastal development and sedimentation from land-based activities further compromise water quality in its shallow reef habitats, while hurricane damage and physical destruction from boat anchoring pose additional localized threats.
Habitat
Madracis decactis inhabits shallow coral reef environments in the Caribbean, typically found at depths of 1-20 meters on reef slopes and fore-reef areas. This branching coral species prefers clear, well-circulated waters with moderate to high wave energy and forms small colonies on hard substrates.
