coral – Page 3 – kawaihae reef

2022-09-032023-12-19

mimicry of finger coral to cauliflower coral

In the calm water of Kawaihae harbor, coral growth is different than in areas with more wave actions. At first glance, these coral colonies appear to be another species. They are similar to a cauliflower coral (Pocillopora meandrina)’s branching. But, these are finger corals (Porites compressa). Their branches can fuse.

finger coral Porites compressa — finger coral (*Porites compress*)

cauliflower coral Pocillopora meandrina and finger coral Porites compressa — cauliflower coral (*Pocillopora meandrina* )and finger coral (*Porites compress* )

2022-08-272024-11-25

coral monitor area 1(9.2014 to 8.2022)

This map shows an area documented with photos dating from 09.28.2014 to date. We are seeing the recovery; however, looking back through the old photos, we lost a great deal. The colonies were observed in the period from September 2015 to shortly afterward. The period from 2015 until when these coral heads were stripped bare was not documented.… Read more “coral monitor area 1(9.2014 to 8.2022)”

2022-08-262024-11-27

mound coral growth comparison 2021 2022

This mound coral head has started to recover from the 2015 Global Coral bleaching event. As observed, the coral colonies grow rapidly when conditions are favorable. These coral heads are outside of the Kawaihae Harbor.