Biomimetic self-curled nanoplates assembled coral-like nanoporous γ-Al 2 O 3 has been prepared by a solvothermal method using ethylene glycol (EG) H 2 O as the mixed solvent, followed by the annealing process. The resulting samples are composed of micro/nanostructured units (∼1.5 μm) with self-curled porous nanoplates on the surface. The volume ratio of EG to water in precursor solution is crucial for the formation of coral-like structure. The formation process is investigated to be an assembly process with self-curled nanoplates driven by adsorption of EG. Importantly, the coral-like porous γ-Al 2 O 3 has high surface area of 64.18 m2/g and exhibits enhanced adsorption performance for efficient removal of heavy metal Hg(II) (49.15 mg/g). The removal capacity is higher than (∼2.5 times) those of commercial Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles and hollow structured γ-Al 2 O 3 prepared without EG (∼2.7 times). Further investigation shows adsorption behaviors of the coral-like γ-Al 2 O 3 and the alumina hollow structure can be well described by Langmuir isotherm model, whereas that of commercial Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles fits Freundlich isotherm model. This work not only provides an inspiration for high efficient biomimetic adsorbent but also presents a facile route for coral-like γ-Al 2 O 3 preparation.