What animals live in the coral reef?

Coral Reef Animals Coral reef animals are the most conspicuous component of coral reef life, occurring in truly astounding numbers and variety throughout the reef ecosystem. Unlike terrestrial forests and prairies whose structure is formed by plants, it is animals (coral polyps) that actually form the structural foundation of coral reef ecosystems - as well as being its dominant inhabitants. read more

Coral reefs are home to an abundant variety of living creatures—fish, turtles, sharks, eels, crabs, shrimps, urchins, sponges, and algae to name a few. In the Pacific islands, coral reefs have some of the highest biodiversity in the world. For example, Guam hosts over 3,500 species of plants and animals, including 200 different types of corals. read more

A healthy coral reef system can support a huge number of aquatic animal life. Some of the most colorful animal species in the world make their home among the coral. Around a coral reef live many animals such as sponges, mollusks, crustaceans, sea anemones, a wide variety of fish, and even the coral itself is an animal. read more