How big is the Broccoli coral?

Broccoli coral (Dendronephthya hemprichi) reaches 20–100 cm in length.

At what depth can you find the Broccoli coral?

Broccoli coral is found between 5–50 m deep.

What is the conservation status of the Broccoli coral?

IUCN status: Least concern (LC).

Where can you find the Broccoli coral?

Found in: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Broccoli coral (Dendronephthya hemprichi)

Key facts

Scientific name: Dendronephthya hemprichi
Common name: Broccoli coral
Category: Corals
Family: Nephtheidae
Genus: Dendronephthya
Size: 20–100 cm
Depth: 5–50 m
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Danger level: Harmless
Habitats: coral-reef
Behaviours: sessile, colonial
Ocean zones: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea

Description

Dendronephthya hemprichi reaches 1 m. Soft coral (Octocorallia) with branching colonies resembling a tentacular broccoli in bright pink-salmon to orange-red, sometimes white or purple. Numerous white polyps on tips. Unlike other corals, not symbiotic (azooxanthellate): feeds on filtered plankton, hence frequent presence in strong pass currents. Lives from 5 to 50 m on drop-offs and coral passes of Indo-Pacific, Red Sea signature. Spectacular photo subject for vivid colors in currents.

Photo of Broccoli coral

Frequently asked questions

How big is the Broccoli coral?: Broccoli coral (Dendronephthya hemprichi) reaches 20–100 cm in length.
At what depth can you find the Broccoli coral?: Broccoli coral is found between 5–50 m deep.
Is the Broccoli coral dangerous to divers?: Danger level: Harmless.
What is the conservation status of the Broccoli coral?: IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
Where can you find the Broccoli coral?: Found in: Asian Pacific, Indian Ocean & Red Sea.

Similar species

Sources

Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 213027)
Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 2263519)
Conservation: IUCN Red List
Encyclopedia: Wikipedia