Staghorn coral off the island of Bonaire, Caribbean Netherlands

Staghorn coral—pictured here—is a branching, stony coral that plays a vital role in shaping marine ecosystems.

It can be easily recognised by its thick, upright branches that can grow more than 2 metres tall.

These strong, round branches look a lot like a stag's antlers, which is why it's called Staghorn coral.

Scientifically named Acropora cervicornis, it is among the fastest-growing corals on Earth—serving as a central hub of biodiversity in the Western Atlantic.