Coral is a unique ocean animal, often mistaken for a plant due to its stationary nature and vibrant colors. It is actually a marine invertebrate belonging to the phylum Cnidaria. Corals are made up of thousands of tiny, soft-bodied organisms called polyps, which secrete calcium carbonate to form a hard, protective exoskeleton. They thrive in warm, shallow waters, forming vast, diverse ecosystems known as coral reefs. These reefs support a multitude of marine species, acting as nurseries, feeding grounds, and shelters. Corals also have a symbiotic relationship with algae, which provide them with nutrients through photosynthesis.