We are all familiar with the invasion of lionfish in the Caribbean but there is also another invasion that has been under the radar – pulse corals.

These corals are from the Indo-Pacific and have been introduced into the Tropical Western Atlantic most likely from someone trying to grow them for commercial purposes. They are favorite for aquariums because they grow rapidly, are very decorative and are resilient.

The invasion started in Venezuela but they have now been reported in Cuba and Puerto Rico. Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao are also on alert. Florida is also concerned.

The coral polyps are always out and move open and close thus looking like they are pulsing.

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Sea State discusses