Coral - There are over 1000 species of coral which is the basis for all sea life. Many reefs have been in existence for millions of years, Individual polyps are tube like shaped and range in size from a pinhead to a foot across.. There are three basic types of coral reefs. Fringing reefs are connected to shore in shallow waters. Barrier reefs are separated from the shore by channels or lagoons. The atolls are a form of reef which is not connected to any land mass, but forms a low island in deep water.. The coral polyps are characterized by calcareous limestone skeletons. Each polyp builds its own protective container of lime. Colonies of polyps die off leaving their skeletons,  which are the foundation of the reefs. The fringing reef is formed by literally billions of these little creatures. Temperature affects growth and temperatures of 75 to 85 degrees is most favorable. To cold they do not grow, to hot and they become diseased sort of speak because of plankton problems. Coral polyps are basically carnivorous animals similar to anemones. Most feed on plankton brought in by currents. They require light to live so most are within 199 feet or less. There are many colors of coral white, pink, blue, purple, gold, orange, red and black. Some are soft like seafans and black corals and some very hard skeletons. Regardless they are all beautiful to see alive in the many worlds of tropical waters.

Note: Coral When picked has broken pieces tucked inside each piece from the ocean. We leave it there for you to use. It does NOT mean it arrived broken.

Because coral is a natural product, its size, weight, appearance and availability will always vary. Please call us first for a description of what we have available. (302-227-4323) Above is a list of the types of coral we normally have in stock.

Environmental Note: All most all of our shells have been used for food value around the world and are the main food source for many people. The shells are not endangered.