Welcome!
Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems on earth, covering less than 1% of the sea floor but supporting 25% of all marine life. However, climate change, rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification and pollution are driving widespread reef loss around the world. Losing reef habitat means potentially losing countless species of fish, invertebrates and algae that depend on corals for food, shelter, and breeding habitat and the disruption of ecosystems that stretch far beyond the reef. Coral reefs also play a role in protecting coastlines, help to stabilize mangroves and seagrass beds, help with carbon cycling, and support coastal communities who rely on them for fisheries and tourism.
Taxonomy provides a foundation for monitoring reef health, tracking biodiversity loss or gain, and documenting ecological change. Learning about coral taxonomy empowers divers and snorkelers to participate in reef conservation and citizen science projects that help scientists with much needed data collection, and makes your next dive trip more rewarding by transforming the reef from a beautiful backdrop to an understandable ecosystem. Sharpen your observation skills, be able to identify and point out species that interest you, share discoveries and insights with your dive buddies, and deepen your connection with the reef. Knowing what you’re seeing also fosters a stronger sense of stewardship and leads to more responsible dive practices. Aquarium hobbyists, conservation activists, and anyone interested in learning more about the ocean is also welcome here! Check out the learning resource pages to get started, or test your coral ID skills with a quiz.
Please be aware that taxonomy is an ever-changing field as scientists receive more information, when updates are needed they will be posted here on the home page.
This website partners with New Heaven Reef Conservation Program which is located in Koh Tao, so the majority of photos represent species found in the indo-pacific area. Any photos from outside this region will be marked with a footnote.
