Corals are bizarre amalgams of animal, plant and non-living material in one package. The coral polyps are animals that contain algae inside them, and also secrete calcium carbonate structures to form a hard skeleton.

Acropora sp. of corals in Lakshadweep

Let’s first look at a few species of Arborescent coral.

Corals of the arborescent growth form are very fast growing; generally the fastest among all different kinds of coral.

These corals grow tall and have simple branches, giving them the appearance of a leafless tree.

They are the homes of many fish and provide vital nursery space for baby fish.

Then comes the Tabular form...

Corals that are classified under this growth form have a flat-top, like a table.

These also grow quite fast, and once they are dead, they quickly attract baby corals to grow on their table-like structure.

Some fish, like these hawkfishes, perch on top of the table. They scan for unsuspecting prey, which they then swoop down on!

Next in our list is the Corymbose type...

These short branching species may not be as tall as their arborescent cousins, but have much more complex branches.

Most corals of the corymbose form are fast growers.

One can find many small fish hanging around these homes and also darting in to hide from predators. These are again nursery sites in the ecosystem!

Can you guess what the species of the Foliose growth form look like?

You guessed it right! With their petal-esque design, they resemble the shape of a flower.

These species grow at a moderately slow pace when compared with those we’ve seen so far.

Small predators find these to be great perching spots!

Next comes the Massive forms...

As the name suggests, these corals are large, and rock-like in shape.

Don't risk entering your massive coral into a growing contest. Although a few species grow fast, most massive corals have the slowest growth among those we've seen.