You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Yellow star coral

Xenia elongata

Today's Research for Tomorrow's Oceans

Support Mote Animals

Fun Facts

The presence of yellow star coral in an area is an indicator of good environmental health because of the coral's ability to filter matter from the water. 

Species Type:

Corals, Invertebrates

Common Name(s):

Yellow star coral

Size:

The branches of yellow star coral can grow up to three inches (7.62 centimeters) tall.

Diet:

Yellow star coral have special algae—called zooxanthellae– in their tissues that photosynthesize the sun's rays into energy/food.

Range & Habitat:

In the Indo-Pacific region and the Red Sea, yellow star coral can be found in shallow, clear waters.

Details:

Yellow star corals are pulsing corals, expanding and contracting its feathery polyps every few seconds. This species is usually pale pink or white in color with slightly darker polyps.