Stony corals exhibit a wide range of shapes. Click on the images below to view a larger image and a description of these corals.

Generally, there are about twice as many coral species in Pacific Ocean reefs as in Atlantic Ocean reefs. Reef-building corals are restricted in their geographic distribution by factors such as the ...

Carybdea branchi, pictured here, is a relative of the Australian box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri), which is considered the most venomous marine animal. (Image courtesy of Brent Viljoen) They may not ...

Reef-building corals cannot tolerate water temperatures below 64° Fahrenheit (18° Celsius). Many grow optimally in water temperatures between 73° and 84° Fahrenheit (23°–29°Celsius), but some can ...

Nicole LeBoeuf is the assistant administrator for NOAA's National Ocean Service (NOS), the nation’s most comprehensive coastal and ocean agency. Its mission is to provide science-based solutions ...

Many species of fish and marine mammals inhabit kelp forests for protection and food. In kelp forests, the most commonly found invertebrates are bristle worms, scud, prawn, snails, and brittle stars.

Whether you’re dealing with humans or horseshoe crabs, it’s important to mind your manners. Being respectful of ocean life is vital to protecting endangered species, federally-protected species, and ...

This animation shows the dynamic process of how a coral atoll forms. Corals (represented in tan and purple) begin to settle and grow around an oceanic island forming a fringing reef. It can take as ...

Despite their tremendous size and intimidating appearance, whale sharks are commonly docile and approachable. Please keep your distance, giving them the respect and space they deserve. Whale sharks ...

In ideal conditions, kelp can grow up to 18 inches per day, and in stark contrast to the colorful and slow-growing corals, the giant kelp canopies tower above the ocean floor. Like trees in a forest, ...

Eel grass, a type of submerged aquatic vegetation, supports the life cycle of many fish and shellfish. The health of submerged aquatic vegetation is an important environmental indicator of overall ...

Shoreline armoring along Wells Beach, Maine. Coastal managers and property owners often attempt to stabilize coastal land and protect residential and commercial infrastructure along the coast by ...