Dendronephthya Hemprichi

D. hemprichi is gonochoric – sexually binary – with colonies releasing either eggs or sperm. As a broadcasting species, in terms of sexual reproductive ability, it participates in mass spawning events in which the coral releases its gametes (eggs or sperm) into the water where they fertilize. The fertilized egg becomes an embryo and further develops into coral larvae, called planulae.

Generally, coral reefs are located between 30° S to 30° N latitude. At 30°N latitude, D. hemprichi is unlike the majority of soft corals at high latitudes that participate in annual spawning events. Instead, it follows a diurnal spawning pattern in which gametes are released every day.

The coral reefs of Eilat host a large number of divers, ranging from scientists to novices seeking a thrill. In addition, there are also many oil jetties off the coast of the city. Diving pressure and the behavior of industries disrupt the local habitat through man made disturbances. Some of these disruptions include coral breakages and damages, in large due to contact of swimming fins with the reef. In addition, benthic zone and branching corals, two categories to which D. hemprichi belongs, have an increased rate of recreational diving damage as compared with corals that inhabit deeper zones.