9 SCAVENGER HUNT
MOUNTAINOUS STAR CORAL ORBICELLA FAVEOLOTA
CONSERVATION STATUS: Endangered DESCRIPTION: Native to the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, this coral species is the most studied and abundant reef-builder in its range. It grows into various shapes—such as boulders, columns, and plates—depending on light availability. Despite its abundance, it grows very slowly, with new growth unable to keep pace with natural mortality rates. This coral is also highly susceptible to disease, leading to a 50% population decline over the last 30 years.