Healthy Elkhorn Coral (IMAGE) European Geosciences Union Caption Healthy Elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) near unpopulated Buck Island, US Virgin Islands. Elkhorn coral is one of many important reef-building species that create 3-D structure on the seafloor. Coral reef structure provides habitat for marine life and helps break up waves as they approach the coastline. Credit Curt Storlazzi, USGS Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.