Goniopora (Hard Coral)

Swaying flower-like tentacles conceal a stony skeleton beneath. Though delicate in appearance, Goniopora contributes quietly to reef structure, adding beauty and bulk to calmer reef zones and lagoons. Each polyp has 24 tentacles — twice the number of most corals — allowing it to efficiently capture plankton in nutrient-rich waters.

Common Name: Flower Coral

Scientific Name: Goniopora

Local Dhivehi Name: Maagandu Hiri

📸Photo: Ibrahim Jilwaz