Soft Coral @ Komodo, Indonesia by Travel Tips and Stories

The soft coral in Komodo National Park is renowned worldwide for its dazzling colours and immense density. It forms one of Indonesia’s most pristine and colourful underwater landscapes.
Characteristics of the soft coral in Komodo
Colour spectrum: The corals range from transparent to bright neon, with dominant colours such as fiery red, deep orange, bronze, gold and rust brown.
Shape and texture: Unlike hard coral (which resembles stone), these corals have fleshy, tree-like structures that sway gracefully with the strong ocean currents.
Popular species: The red soft coral (Dendronephthya) is common. This species opens up completely in the current to filter nutrients from the water.
Locations: The best spots to admire these colourful tree corals are dive and snorkel sites around the north and centre of the park, such as Crystal Rock, Castle Rock and the reefs at Kanawa.
Biodiversity: The soft corals serve as a vibrant habitat for thousands of reef fish (such as anthias), octopuses, turtles and other small marine creatures.
Underwater life and currents: Due to its specific location between the Indian Ocean and the Flores Sea, nutrient-rich water flows through the Komodo area. This ensures that the soft coral grows abundantly, but also makes the currents very strong in some places. As a result, some locations are more suitable for experienced divers.
Watch this video for a visual impression of the colourful corals and clear waters in Komodo National Park: