Cauliflower soft coral under threat

This beautiful soft coral has experienced significant declines in NSW, including in the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park over the last decade, with it now gone from many locations where it was previously abundant.

It is a preferred habitat for the endangered White’s Seahorse and supports juvenile Snapper.

Following the March floods which caused even more loss, the species is estimated to have declined by over 90% in the past decade and unfortunately could become locally extinct within the next few years.

All parts of the marine estate are precious – you can help by only dropping anchor in approved areas and limiting other activities that disturb these rare corals.

Read more marine estate news.