Brain Coral

3D Model

The term “Brain coral” is used to describe different types of corals within the Mussidae and Merulinidae families. They are called this because of their typically round shape and the ridges on their surface that resemble a brain. These corals consist of colonies of genetically identical polyps, and they create a sturdy calcium carbonate skeleton. This characteristic makes them significant contributors to coral reefs, similar to other hard corals in the Scleractinia order. Brain corals inhabit shallow, warm waters within coral reefs in oceans across the globe.

We’d love to hear from you if you download or print our models, particularly if you incorporate them into educational or outreach activities.

Contact us at: wattinstitution@inverclyde.gov.uk