Elkhorn Coral

Description:

Elkhorn coral is a large, branching coral with thick and sturdy antler-like branches. Colonies are fast growing: branches increase in length by 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) per year, with colonies reaching their maximum size in approximately 10-12 years. Over the last 10,000 years, elkhorn coral has been one of the three most important Caribbean corals contributing to reef growth and development and providing essential fish habitat.

Habitat:

The Indians are an uninhabited small archipelago of islets in the British Virgin Islandsin the Caribbean. They are west of the small British Pelican Island and east of the small US Flanagan Island. They are located south of larger British Tortola Island and east of the large US Saint John Island. They were so named because from a distance they were though to resemble a Native American chief's head dress. The Indians are also the second most popular dive site in the British Virgin Islands after the wreck of the RMS Rhone. The shallower side of the Indians are also a popular snorkelling site, as boats can anchor in the lee of Pelican Island.