starry cup coral
Acanthastrea hemprichii
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Starry cup 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 coral colonies and reduce water quality in shallow reef environments. Collection for the marine aquarium trade has historically impacted accessible populations, though this pressure has decreased with improved captive propagation techniques.
Habitat
Starry cup coral inhabits shallow coral reefs and lagoons in the Indo-Pacific, typically found at depths of 5-30 meters on reef slopes and protected areas with moderate water flow. It forms large colonies on hard substrates and requires clear, warm waters with stable salinity levels.
Other threatened species in Lobophylliidae
Threatened in American Samoa
Frequently asked questions
Why is starry cup coral classified as Vulnerable?
Where does starry cup coral live?
What are the main threats to starry cup coral?
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