What is a starfish coral?

Starfish coral, also known as "star coral," refers to various species within the genus Montastraea, which are reef-building corals found in tropical marine environments. These corals are characterized by their star-shaped polyps and play a crucial role in forming coral reefs, providing habitat and shelter for numerous marine organisms. They contribute to biodiversity and help protect Coastlines from erosion. Starfish corals are sensitive to changes in water temperature and quality, making them indicators of marine ecosystem health.