Orbicella annularis

Orbicella annularis, commonly known as the boulder star coral, is a notable coral species found in the western Atlantic Ocean. It is particularly abundant and extensively studied in the Caribbean, making it a key contributor to reef-building in the region. This coral boasts an impressive fossil record, showcasing its long-standing presence in the area.

Initially, scientists believed that Orbicella annularis was a highly adaptable species capable of thriving at depths ranging from 0 to 80 meters, with the ability to modify its colony shape based on available light. However, recent molecular studies have revealed that what was once thought to be a single species is actually a complex of at least three distinct species: Orbicella annularis, Orbicella faveolata, and Orbicella franksi.

Interestingly, this coral was originally described under a different name, Montastraea annularis, before subsequent research led to its reclassification.