The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 3500
Soft corals, known as octocorals (Alcyonacea), are flexible marine animals commonly found on coral reefs. Unlike hard corals, they do not build rigid skeletons but rely on internal structures that allow them to sway with ocean currents. They often host symbiotic algae and feed on plankton, thriving in a variety of reef environments, from shallow waters to deeper slopes.
Soft corals include forms such as sea fans, sea whips, and leather corals, adding movement and color to reef habitats. They provide shelter for small marine species and contribute to reef biodiversity. Although generally more adaptable than hard corals, they are still affected by environmental changes like warming seas and pollution, making healthy ocean conditions essential for their survival.
