Coral Taxonomy & Identification

The Coral Taxonomy & Identification Course is a 1-day hands-on marine conservation training designed to help divers identify coral genera, colony formations and growth forms found in the Indo-Pacific region.

Through classroom learning and guided dives, you’ll discover how coral diversity shapes reef ecosystems and learn to recognize the unique features that define each coral species.

This course is part of our Conservation Diver training programs on Koh Tao and is essential for anyone serious about coral reef conservation.

Yes — the Coral Taxonomy & Identification course requires you to be at least a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent).

You must also have completed the Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP) beforehand, as it provides the foundation for understanding reef ecology and survey methods.

If you’re not certified yet, you can complete your Open Water and Advanced Open Water courses with us before starting your marine conservation training.

During the Coral Taxonomy & Identification course, you’ll learn how to:

• Identify common coral genera found around Koh Tao and the Indo-Pacific.
• Recognize coral growth forms and understand their ecological importance.
• Apply your knowledge in two underwater identification dives, practicing real scientific techniques used in reef monitoring.

By the end of the course, you’ll have a much deeper understanding of coral reef biodiversity and the skills to contribute to scientific coral surveys and conservation projects.

Understanding coral taxonomy is essential for assessing coral reef health and supporting effective conservation.

Different coral species react differently to stress, disease, and environmental changes — so being able to identify them accurately allows divers and researchers to monitor reef recovery and detect early warning signs of damage.

By learning coral taxonomy, you gain the tools to make your dives meaningful and contribute real data to marine research and restoration projects.

The Coral Taxonomy & Identification course takes place at some of Koh Tao’s most biodiverse reef sites, chosen for their coral variety and excellent visibility.

Our instructors select locations where you can easily observe multiple coral growth forms and genera, ensuring that your training includes a wide range of real-life examples.

Absolutely! Many students combine Coral Taxonomy with other Conservation Diver specialties such as Coral Restoration, Coral Disease & Compromised Health, or Artificial Reefs.

If you’re taking the 2 weeks Conservation Specialist Program, Coral Taxonomy is already included as one of the core modules.

These programs build on each other, allowing you to progressively expand your coral ecology knowledge and underwater research skills.

After completing the Coral Taxonomy & Identification course, you’ll receive an official Conservation Diver Certification — recognized globally among marine research and conservation organizations.

This certification allows you to participate in coral monitoring and restoration programs across multiple Conservation Diver locations worldwide.

The Coral Taxonomy course is a 1-day training that includes:

• 1 classroom session on coral anatomy, growth forms, and ID techniques
• 2 guided coral identification dives
• Coral ID materials and underwater slates
• Full diving equipment and insurance
• Conservation Diver certification upon completion
• Refreshments and fruit on the boat

Price: 6,000 THB

Koh Tao is home to some of the most diverse coral reefs in the Gulf of Thailand, making it the perfect environment to study coral biodiversity.

At Black Turtle Conservation, our instructors are certified Conservation Diver Instructor Trainers and marine scientists dedicated to high-quality, science-based training.

You’ll learn coral taxonomy using real-world examples, contribute to ongoing research, and join a global network of divers working to protect coral reefs.