VU

Ocellated Brain Coral

Cyphastrea ocellina

Unknown

Overview

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

Ocellated Brain Coral faces severe pressure from ocean warming and acidification, which cause bleaching events and weaken its calcium carbonate skeleton. Coastal development and sedimentation from land-based activities smother 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 overgrowth.

Threat summary

Habitat

Ocellated Brain 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. The species prefers areas with moderate water flow and clear, warm waters with stable salinity levels.

MARINE· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Ocellated Brain Coral classified as Vulnerable?
Ocellated Brain 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. Ocellated Brain Coral faces severe pressure from ocean warming and acidification, which cause bleaching events and weaken its calcium carbonate skeleton. Coastal development and sedimentation from land-based activities smother 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 overgrowth.
Where does Ocellated Brain Coral live?
Ocellated Brain Coral occurs in Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, and South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands (plus 3 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Ocellated Brain Coral?
The main threats to Ocellated Brain 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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