Pocillopora is a genus of stony corals in the family Pocilloporidae occurring in the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

Cauliflower corals are widespread and can be identified by the presence of wart-like growths on their surface.

Species situated on shallow reefs pounded by the sea tend to be stunted whilst those in deep calm water are often thin and open.

[3] They also reproduce sexually and the larvae develop inside the polyps rather than free floating in the water, a reproduction strategy known as brooding.

These corals are widespread because they sometimes attach to floating objects and can be carried far afield by currents and wind.