Is coral an animal or a plant? Coral is a living animal with a wide variety of beautiful colors, unique shapes and textures. They are a keystone species because they create the reef structure for all other animals. Coral reefs act as a home to not only coral, but thousands of species of fish and algae too. Think of coral reefs as the living room, dining room and nursery for a host of organisms. Together, they make up the most unique ecosystem in the world. Reefs serve as a home for protection. C

What exactly is coral? The answer might surprise you. | ABC Science