Pavona diffluens coral

Pavona diffluens is a species of coral likely found along part of the east African coast, the Red Sea, and the northwestern Indian Ocean.

Pavona diffluens is listed as threatened throughout its range under the Endangered Species Act.

Learn more about Pavona diffluens (PDF, 3 pages) 

Colonies of Pavona diffluens are sub-massive and tan-colored.

Based on confirmed observations and strong predictions of occurrence in areas that have not yet been surveyed sufficiently, Pavona diffluens is
likely distributed along part of the east African coast, the Red Sea, and the northwestern Indian Ocean.

Pavona diffluens occurs in at least upper reef slopes, mid-slopes, lower reef crests, reef flats, and lagoons in depths of 5 to at least 20 meters.

The reproductive characteristics of Pavona diffluens have not been determined, however, 6 other Pavona species are known to be gonochoristic (individual colonies have either male or female gametes, not both) broadcast spawners.

Ocean Warming

The species’ distribution is limited to parts of the western Indian Ocean and Red Sea where projections of local threats and general effects of climate change are both frequent and severe over the foreseeable future. The Red Sea in particular is projected to experience frequent warming events sooner than most other parts of the Indo-Pacific region.