Montastraea

Montastraea is a genus of large, colonial corals often called brain corals because of their intricate, maze-like surface patterns. They are vital reef builders in Caribbean and Atlantic ecosystems, providing habitat for many marine species. These corals consist of numerous individual polyps that secrete calcium carbonate, creating the sturdy skeleton that forms the backbone of coral reefs. Montastraea species are slow-growing and sensitive to environmental changes like temperature fluctuations, pollution, and ocean acidification, making them important indicators of reef health and conservation priorities.