VU

Stellar coral

Psammocora stellata

Unknown

Overview

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

Stellar 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 polyps 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 harmful algal growth.

Threat summary

Habitat

Stellar coral inhabits shallow tropical and subtropical coral reef environments, typically found in lagoons and reef flats at depths of 1-20 meters. It thrives in areas with moderate water flow and clear, warm waters with stable salinity levels.

MARINE· major

Threatened in American Samoa

VU

Horse's Hoof Clam

Hippopus hippopus

Declining
VU

Medusanthera samoensis

Unknown
VU

Alveopora excelsa

Declining
VU

Carcharhinus albimarginatus

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Stellar coral classified as Vulnerable?
Stellar 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. Stellar 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 polyps 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 harmful algal growth.
Where does Stellar coral live?
Stellar coral occurs in American Samoa, Australia, British Indian Ocean Territory, Chile, Colombia, and Cook Islands (plus 34 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 Stellar coral?
The main threats to Stellar 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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