scubaseason

Staghorn Coral

Acropora formosa

Sighting evidence at Naviti Reef Wall, Yasawa Islands

Extensive stands of staghorn coral cover the reef terraces above the wall, forming thickets that provide shelter for dozens of damselfish, wrasse, and hawkfish species. This fast-growing branching Acropora is a critical framework builder on Indo-Pacific reefs, and its recovery after bleaching events is an important indicator of overall reef resilience. At Naviti the staghorn gardens appear in excellent condition, suggesting the site's exposure to clean ocean water and limited human pressure has buffered the worst effects of recent regional warming episodes.

Evidence at this site

No confirmed records on file at this site

Staghorn Coral is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.

How is this calculated?

Sighting evidence is compiled from iNaturalist observation records within a set proximity radius, filtered for quality-grade observations. “Last confirmed” is the date of the most recent research-grade record. Record count covers a rolling 24-month window. Confidence reflects record count, recency, and consistency of seasonal signal.

Also seen at other sites