A 'forest' of Staghorn (Acropora species) hard corals, on a coral reef in Gaafu Dhaalu atoll, Maldives

staghorn corals coral reef gaafu dhaalu maldives marine life biodiversity underwater ecosystem ocean growth fish habitat aquatic environment health species indian forests submerged conservation bleaching snorkeling diving plants hotspot exploration water clarity coastal waters protection sea regeneration populations healthy reefs