Pillar Coral Spawning in the Keys

A rare stand of Pillar Coral (Dendrogyra cylindrus) in the Upper Keys, ancient centennials of the reefs, were awaiting the August full moon to join in the annual spawning event.

Sunset and calm waters as researchers slipped into the ocean

Divers cautiously floated among the pillars, anxiously watching and waiting. Even a small (green) octopus hung around for the show

First the male pillars erupted, shortly after 9:00 pm, bathing the reef in smokey clouds (photo by K. Neely).

And then the female pillars, beginning just before 9:30 pm, cast their tiny pink eggs into the sea to join the dance.