Corals

 

Exploring the Vibrant Coral Reefs of the Park

The park’s warm, clear waters are home to a stunning diversity of coral and fish species. With over 250 coral species representing one-third of all coral species found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, the park offers an incredible underwater ecosystem for exploration.

Coral Diversity: Among the dominant coral genera found in the park are Montipora and Porites, closely followed by Pavona, Pocillopora, Psammocora, and Acropora. These corals create vibrant underwater landscapes, offering essential habitats for the abundant marine life in the area.

Reef Structure: Most of the park's waters are lined with fringing coral reefs that provide diverse habitats for fish and other marine life. The reef system typically includes:

• Reef Flats or shallow backreef moats
• A Reef Crest, often exposed during low tide
• Surge Zones, featuring spur-and-groove formations, especially on the southwest windward side
• A sharp Reef Front, which drops 5–10 meters to a reef terrace before gradually descending into deeper waters

 

Coral.

NPS

Safety Notice: Be cautious of the ava, or channels, that drain tidal or surge buildups from the park’s lagoons. These areas often have strong rip currents, which can pose a significant risk to swimmers. Always stay aware of your surroundings and avoid these dangerous zones.

Discover the beauty and biodiversity of the park’s coral reefs while staying safe in these pristine waters.