This pillar coral was at the core of bio site 7
Dendrogyra cylindrus a.k.a. pillar coral is found in the Caribbean Sea and the western Atlantic Ocean. This particular structure is found in the Dominican Republic southwest of Bayahibe.
I took this photo in 2011 as part of a site assessment of the Morales "shipwreck", an artificial reef site built and maintained by Indiana University's Department of Underwater Science. The site assessment was being performed by Matt and I along with a close friend Katy. If memory serves me correctly, this pillar coral was at the core of bio site 7.
Pillar coral can grow to be as tall as 10 feet. This one was about 3.5-4 feet tall. It was growing in a valley of finger reef at a depth of about 42 feet. The coral could be found a short kick away from the main Morales dive site. It wasn't the first landmark you saw during the dive, but once you did see it the first time, it was impossible to miss.
Dendrogyra cylindrus is considered a Vulnerable species according to the IUCN. This species of coral is particularly susceptible to bleaching and white plague disease. The work of organizations such as the Coral Restoration Foundation help to protect pillar coral and other coral species.
Pillar coral is considered a critically endangered species
Large and healthy populations of elkhorn coral
Diving in the Dominican Republic afforded me the opportunity to see many beautiful coral reef sites. Off the eastern coast of Isla Catalina, I was able to see some very large and healthy populations of elkhorn coral. Elkhorn coral, a.k.a. Acropora palmata, is a critically endangered species residing in the Caribbean Sea.
Any time that I am under the water, I look for corals such as these because they are so beautiful. I hope that we continue to protect and nurture the coral populations that we have today so that future generations can cherish their beauty.
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