Fire coral
Red Sea marine life

Fire coral

Bright mustard yellow and beautiful, but a brutal sting if touched.

All Red Sea marine life

About this species

One of the most common warnings in the Red Sea. Fire coral is actually a hydrozoan, not a true coral, despite the calcified branching structure. The pretty yellow surface is covered with thousands of microscopic stinging cells that fire on contact, leaving a painful, itchy burn and red welts that can last days. The colour and shape lure curious swimmers, don't touch.

Where to find it

Reef tops and edges in all destinations. Often the most visible yellow coral.

Safety for snorkelers

Common questions

Fire coral: is it dangerous for snorkelers?+

Caution. DO NOT TOUCH. Even brushing it lightly causes a painful burn and rash. If stung, rinse with seawater (NOT freshwater), apply vinegar, see a clinic if severe.

Fire coral: where can you see it in Egypt?+

Reef tops and edges in all destinations. Often the most visible yellow coral. These trips go where this species lives. It is a wild animal, so a sighting is possible and never promised.

More Red Sea species