<p><br> The rocky structure that make up coral reefs are actually a build-up of calcium secreted by coral polyps.</p>

Organ Pipe Coral


The rocky structure that make up coral reefs are actually a build-up of calcium secreted by coral polyps.

Photograph by Robert Sisson

Coral

See coral pictures in this photo gallery from National Geographic.

Read This Next

Once devastated, these reefs have seen an amazing rebirth
Philippines' reefs are some of the most vibrant—but in peril
Climate-resilient coral species offer hope for the world’s reefs

Go Further

Subscriber Exclusive Content

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet