Sea Fans and Black Corals

Sea fans unfurl in the current like underwater lace, filtering plankton and sheltering reef life. Nearby, black corals spiral upward, adding elegance and vertical structure to the reef walls. Together, they enhance the reef’s 3D complexity, offering protection and feeding grounds for schooling fish.

Common Name: Gorgonian Sea Fan

Scientific Name: Melithaea sp.

Local Dhivehi Name: Moodhu Hathaa

📸Photo: Muha

Common Name: Black Coral

Scientific Name: Cirrhipathes sp.

Local Dhivehi Name: Endheri

Common Name: Penguin's Wing Oyster

Scientific Name: Pteria penguin

Local Dhivehi Name: Endheri Ithaa

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Collage showing colorful gorgonian sea fans (Melithaea) and dark, wiry black corals (Cirrhipathes) growing along a reef wall, their branches filtering plankton from the current and providing habitat for small reef species. Dhivehi Name: Endheri