Orbicella

Orbicella is a genus of large, reef-building corals found mostly in the Caribbean Sea. These corals are vital to marine ecosystems because they create habitats that support diverse marine life. They have thick, boulder-like structures with numerous small, individual polyps that work together to build the reef. Orbicella corals are sensitive to environmental changes like temperature increases and pollution, making them important indicators of reef health. Their decline threatens the stability of coral reefs, which are crucial for marine biodiversity, coastal protection, and local economies.