SSI Coral Identification eLearning

SSI Coral Identification — eLearning & Certification Credit Only

Uncover the hidden beauty and importance of coral reefs with the SSI Coral Identification specialty. This course teaches you how to recognise different coral species, understand their biology, and appreciate their essential role in marine ecosystems. It provides your academic training and certification credit only, allowing you to complete the learning online before joining optional in-water observation dives with an SSI Dive Centre.

What you’ll learn online

• The biology, structure, and growth patterns of corals
• How to identify hard and soft coral species
• Coral reef formation and ecological importance
• Symbiotic relationships between corals and other marine organisms
• Threats to coral reefs, including bleaching and human impact
• Global coral reef ecosystems and conservation initiatives
• How divers can help protect and restore coral habitats

Optional practical training (booked separately)

To bring your coral knowledge to life, you can join in-water identification dives with an SSI Instructor. These sessions may include:

• Identifying coral species and families in their natural environment
• Understanding coral health indicators and reef conditions
• Recording observations for reef monitoring or conservation projects
• Practising buoyancy control to protect fragile coral ecosystems

These dives are not included with this eLearning product and must be arranged separately with Dorset Diving or another SSI Dive Centre offering the Coral Identification programme.

Important

• Always confirm that your chosen dive centre offers SSI Coral Identification training and related in-water activities if you wish to participate.
• You do not need to be a certified diver to complete this online course, but open water dives require an Open Water Diver certification or higher.
• A general interest in marine biology and coral conservation will enhance your learning experience.

Free registration

Begin your coral discovery today by creating a free SSI account and affiliating with our dive centre here:
Register with Dorset Diving.

What’s next?

After completing Coral Identification, continue your ocean education with related SSI Ecology specialties such as Marine Ecology, Fish Identification, or Shark Ecology — ideal for divers passionate about understanding and protecting coral reef ecosystems.