CR

Saffron Coral

Porites sverdrupi

Declining

Overview

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

Porites sverdrupi faces severe threats from ocean warming and acidification, which cause coral bleaching and reduce the species' ability to build its calcium carbonate skeleton. The species is particularly vulnerable to marine heatwaves that have become increasingly frequent in the Eastern Pacific. Coastal development and pollution from terrestrial runoff further degrade the limited reef habitats where this coral occurs.

Threat summary

Habitat

Porites sverdrupi inhabits shallow coral reef environments in the Eastern Pacific, typically found in areas with moderate to strong water circulation. This species forms part of the reef framework in tropical marine waters where it contributes to the structural complexity of coral communities.

Marine neritic· major

Conservation measures underway

Habitat & natural process restorationSpecies recoveryLegislation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Saffron Coral classified as Critically Endangered?
Saffron Coral is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Porites sverdrupi faces severe threats from ocean warming and acidification, which cause coral bleaching and reduce the species' ability to build its calcium carbonate skeleton. The species is particularly vulnerable to marine heatwaves that have become increasingly frequent in the Eastern Pacific. Coastal development and pollution from terrestrial runoff further degrade the limited reef habitats where this coral occurs.
Where does Saffron Coral live?
Saffron Coral occurs in Mexico. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Saffron Coral?
The main threats to Saffron Coral are 11.1, 2.1, 5.4, and 6.1. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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