The Galaxy Coral Galaxea fascicularis is a popular large polyp stony (LPS) coral that many reef enthusiasts have or want in their collection. It has a very delicate and brittle skeleton, but it is quite attractive. Its polyps resemble a star burst and are tipped in white, give it a sparkling crystal-like appearance. The tentacles have a mesmerizing movement to them as they undulate in the aquarium. Common names it is known by, reflecting some of those great characteristics, are the Star Coral, Crystal Coral, Brittle Coral, Starburst Coral, Scapel Coral, and Durian Coral.

In the wild Galaxy Coral colonies are massive with mostly columnar or encrusting forms, but shapes that include spires and branches are also sometimes found. They are common in many environments, and often dominate inshore fringing reefs to the exclusion of all other corals. Their lightweight skeleton consists of groupings of branching tubular corallites connected together by tiny little bumpy plates. The outermost parts of this formation is then covered in living tissue. This makes for a delicate and easily broken structure, so it must be handled with care.

The colors this coral comes in are green, red, brown, gray, and pink, as well as mixtures of these. The outer tentacles that extend from each corallite tend to be clear or translucent, with tentacles becoming more opaque towards the center. They are often tipped in white, or sometimes a lighter variation of their colors. The polyps range in size, up to 6mm in diameter. Tentacles are often extended during the day.

The Galaxea genus can be moderate to easy to care for, especially if they are aquacultured specimens. Due to their delicate skeleton, specimens that are imported can suffer a lot of damage which can lead to infection. However imported corals have many commensal creatures that live between the polyps such as crabs, mussels, sponges, and shrimp. It is actually quite a privilege to acquire a Galaxy Coral with these creatures.

Provide the Galaxy Coral with good light and a low to moderate water movement. Coral skeletons are its substrate of choice as it will encrust these. It can extend very long sweeper tentacles, over 12" (30 cm) in length, that pack a pretty strong sting. Keeping a low water flow will help minimize the length of these. Keeping it fed is also a good way of keep them from "searching for food" with those little stingers. Provide an abundant amount of space between it and other corals to prevent its sweeper tentacles from damaging them, and for its own growth needs.

Scientific name

Family: Oculinidae
Species: Galaxea fascicularis

Family: Oculinidae

- Galaxy Coral

Star Coral, Crystal Coral, Brittle Coral, Starburst Coral

Galaxea fascicularis

The Galaxy Coral is a delicate beauty, and a great focal point in a spacious reef aquarium!

Distribution / Background :

Galaxea Coral Information: The Galaxy Coral Galaxea fascicularis was first described by Linnaeus in 1767. The Family Oculinidae of which Galaxea fascicularis belongs was first erected by Gray in 1847. The Genus Galaxea is credited to Oken in 1815. There are around 24 nominal species, about 16 of which are valid species and subspecies, with two being found around Australia. Some of them are G. acrhelia, G. alta, G. astreata, G. clavus, G. cryptoramosa, G. excelsa, G. fascicularis, G. fragilis, G. hexagonalis, G. horrescens, G. irregularis, G. lamarcki, G. longisepta, G. musicalis, and G. paucisepta. Other names this coral is known for are Star Coral, Crystal Coral, Brittle Coral, Starburst Coral, Scapel Coral, and Durian Coral.

Galaxy Corals are commonly imported from Indonesia and they have been propagated in captivity.

Where Galaxea Corals Are Found: The Galaxea genus are found in the Red Sea then south 1/2 way down Africa's east coast, eastward around Madagascar and the Mauritius Islands to Australia's upper west, north and upper east coasts; including the Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea, Houtman Abrolhos Islands, and Ningaloo Reef tract. From there it continues east from New Caledonia to the Pitcairn Islands, expanding northward to Tuamotu Islands, the Line Islands, and the southern tip of Japan. it encompasses all of Indonesia to Sri Lanka and the southern tip and 1/2 of the west coast of India

Galaxea Coral Habitat: The Galaxea genus are found at depths of 9 to 82 feet (3-25 m) in areas of the reef that are protected from strong waves. They are common in many environments, and often dominate inshore fringing reefs to the exclusion of all other corals. The G. fascicularis has very strong stinging tentacles to help capture small prey and to defend themselves against predators.

Status :

The G. fascicularis is not on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species. The following species from this genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species:

G. acrhelia: Vulnerable (VU)
G. astreata: Vulnerable (VU)
G. cryptoramosa: Vulnerable (VU)
G. fascicularis: Near Threatened (NT)
G. horrescens: Least Concern (LC)
G. longisepta: Near Threatened (NT)
G. paucisepta: Near Threatened (NT)

Description :

What do Galaxea Corals look like: The Galaxea genus are massive with mostly columnar or encrusting forms, but shapes that include spires and branches are also sometimes found. Their lightweight skeleton consists of groupings of branching tubular corallites connected together by tiny little bumpy plates. The outermost parts of this formation is then covered in living tissue.

Their corallites may or may not stand out from the base but they have long, delicate saber-like septa that can easily break. Interestingly, many of the growth formations are caused by boring creatures such as the Date musselLithophaga, which cause large colonies to break apart and develop sub-branching growth forms.

Galaxea corals comes in are green, red, brown, gray, and pink, as well as mixtures of these. The outer tentacles extending from each corallite tend to be clear or translucent, becoming more opaque toward the center. They are often tipped in white, or sometimes a lighter variation of their colors. The polyps range in size, up to 6mm in diameter, and tentacles are often extended during the day. Long sweeper tentacles, up to 12" (30 cm), come out at night.

In the wild, Galaxy Coral G. fascicularis colonies grow up to 3.3 feet (1 m) across. In captivity, It is usually ball or dome shaped and can have irregular edges. Another formation is short with wide branches. G. fascicularis generally are green, brown, and red, but can be a mix of these colors, most often with white tips. This coral has clear to translucent sweeper tentacles.

Difficulty of Care:

Galaxea Coral Care: The Galaxea genus can be moderate to easy to care for, especially if they are aquacultured specimens. The G. fascicularis will do well in an aquarium once it is established if you have a healthy specimen. It can be delicate when first introduced because of collection and transportation damage. Care must be taken in the handling of this coral as it has a fragile skeleton which can easily be broken. Aquacultured specimens tend to be much hardier than those imported from the wild

Foods / Feeding :

Galaxea Coral Feeding: The Galaxea corals, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive many of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

In captivity, filter feeding/Invert food should be offered as well as bits of shrimp and fish. The Galaxy Coral can be fed small zooplankton, adult or baby enriched brine shrimp, mysis, or similarly sized food. Feed as needed, typically when the sweeper tentacles are extended.

Aquarium Care:

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

The following water supplements are suggested for Galaxea species:

Calcium: 400 to 450 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
Alkalinity: 3.2 TO 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
Strontium: 8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Galaxy Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production. A mature tank is recommended.

The Galaxy Coral likes a low to moderate water flow and medium to bright light. Don't house them in a crowded aquarium with many other corals unless you can provide 12 inches or more between the Galaxea genus and other sessile invertebrates. Care must be taken in regards to its placement in the tank and the water flow around it as the sweeper tentacles, which will stretch in strong currents. These tentacles have a strong sting and it can do great harm to other corals within its reach.

Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallons (190 L) or larger
Marine Lighting: Medium to high
Temperature: 74° - 81° F (23° - 27° C)
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023
Water Movement: Low to Moderate
Water Region: Top of the aquarium

Compatibility and Social Behaviors :

G. fascicularis is an aggressive coral which will easily damage its neighbors with its stinging sweeper tentacles. It has sweeper tentacles that can be up to 12" (30 cm) in length. They come out at night and pack a pretty strong sting, so space from other corals accordingly. Lower water flow over the coral can help prevent the tentacles from forming longer thinner sweepers. Keeping the Galaxea genus fed is also a good way of keep them from "searching for food" with those little stingers.

The Galaxea genus have many commensal creatures that live between the polyps. These can be crabs, mussels, sponges, and shrimp. It is actually quite a privilege to acquire a Galaxy Coral with these creatures.

Sex - Sexual differences : Unknown.

Breeding and Reproduction :

The large polyp stony (LPS) corals are male and female and can reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the wild they reproduce sexually by releasing eggs and sperm at the same time, resulting in a fertilized egg which then forms into a free-swimming planula larva. Eventually the planula larvae settles onto the substrate, becoming plankters. This then forms a tiny polyp which begins to excrete calcium carbonate and develops into a coral. Planula larvae are extremely vulnerable to predation, and very few survive.

The Galaxea genus have male and female colonies. The female colony forms red eggs. Then a hermaphrodite colony emits sperm that attached to buoyant, faux egg-shaped structures. These little sperm and fake egg duos then float up and fertilize the female's true red eggs. Galaxea genus reproduce asexually as well.

The G. fascicularis has been propagated in captivity. Propagation has occurred in aquariums by fragmentation. To propagate, use a wire saw blade and cut into even segments. These segments will easily encrust, and they can also be suspended by a string or plastic wire, keeping the coral from touching any surrounding surfaces.

Potential Problems :

The Galaxea genus is susceptible when weak to brown jelly infections, necrosis and recession. These are all preventable when purchasing a healthy specimen. Other problems include:

Debris collecting on the colony, so keep the areas in-between the polyp heads clean with a turkey baster.
The fragile skeleton is broken and then tears through the flesh
Be cautious of commensal animals and sponges on the coral. The Galaxy Corals are commonly found with both in the wild. Commensal animals can die in-between the polyps during transport, so keep the areas in-between the polyp heads clean.

On the positive side, due to the wide spacing between polyps, if one polyp is infected or dying, that does not necessarily mean those close to it will die. Use a turkey baster to keep the areas in-between the polyp heads clean.

Availability :

Galaxea Corals for Sale: The Galaxy Coral G. fascicularis is very easy to find at pet shops and on line. Prices range from $25.00 to $48.00 USD or more, depending on size and/or color.

References :

Animal-World References: Marine and Reef
Harry Erhardt and Horst Moosleitner, Marine Atlas Volume 2, Invertebrates (Baensch Marine Atlas), Mergus Verlag GmbH, Revised edition, 2005
Eric Borneman, Aquarium Corals : Selection, Husbandry, and Natural History , TFH Publications, 2001
Anthony Calfo, Book of Coral Propagation, Volume 1 Edition 2: Reef Gardening for Aquarists, Reading Trees; 2nd edition, 2007
J.E.N. Veron, Corals of Australia and the Indo-Pacific , University of Hawaii Press; 2 Rev Ed edition, 1993
Ronald L. Shimek, Guide to Marine Invertebrates: 500+ Essential-to-Know Aquarium Species, Microcosm, 2005
Bob Goemans, Star / Galaxy / Crystal Coral, Galaxea fascicularis, Animal Library, Saltwatercorner.com

Family: Poritidae

Branching Flowerpot Coral

Daisy Coral, Ball Coral, Flower Pot Coral, Alveopora Coral

Alveopora Sp.

The Branching Flowerpot Coral is a delicate beauty, but also quite rare both in nature and in captivity!

The Branching Flowerpot Coral Alveopora sp. is a 'one-of-a-kind' genus in both looks and structure. In the wild their skeletal formations are massive, round or branching, yet are lightweight and porous. They have large corallites creating an interlocking network of rods and spines. However their most distinctive features are their large elongated polyps, which can extend up to 12 inches (30 cm) or more.

The polyps of the Branching Flowerpot Coral can extend outward in a spray. They are topped with a fringe of tentacles surrounding a mouth area (oral discs) that often have knob-like swollen tips. The oral discs or tentacle tips can be white or green. The tentacles can have a contrasting color of the oral discs giving it that "daisy" appearance. They look much like a bunch of flowers. Hence the common names like Daisy Coral, Flowerpot Coral, Sunflower Coral, and Ball Coral.

All the different Alveopora species have 12 polyps, but they are usually of different shapes and colors. The Branching Flowerpot Corals extend their polyps both during the day and partially at night. They will quickly retract them however, if disturbed. Their nervous system is very sensitive. If you touch one side of these corals, it sends impulses to the rest of the coral. It will quickly retract polyps across the coral in a wave reaction.

The colors of the Branching Flowerpot coral are usually light brown, cream or green and can have shades of pale pink, yellow or blue. There are a lot of different color and growth forms, making for variety within the genus, yet not more than three species are ever found in the same local. The Alveopora genus is similar to its relatives, theGoniopora Corals including the Flowerpot Coral G. stokesi, but are just a little more durable. Currently the most common species found in aquaria are A. catalai, A. allingi, and A. gigas.

Alveopora corals can be difficult to care for. Even though they are "easier" than Goniopora, this type of coral is not recommended for beginner aquarium keepers. For each species figuring out the right "combination" of light, current, supplements and food is a challenge, but important to care for them in captivity.

The Alveopora should be kept in a reef that does not have excessive lighting, as it is damaging to their tissue. Although not aggressive, they can extend their polyps to a distance that is the same as the diameter of the main body in order to ward off encroaching corals. It is debated whether they starve to death if not well fed, since some have done well in a low nutrient system, and some in a high nutrient system. They may benefit from liquid nutrients like Marine Snow and Phytoplex, yet may enjoy target feedings of plankton, brine shrimp, or other similar sized foods on occasion.

The Branching Flower Pot Coral tends to be a favorite for the Ocellaris Clownfish, also known as False Percula, if there is not a host anemone present.

Scientific name Family: Poritidae
Species: Alveopora sp.

Distribution / Background :

Alveopora Coral Information: The Alveopora genus was described by de Blainville in 1830. There are 27 nominal species and at least 16 of them are true species, 8 are from Australia. Some of the species are A. allingi, A. catalai, A. daedalea, A. excelsa, A. fenestrata, A. gigas, A. japonica, A. marionensis, A. minuta, A. ocellata, A. spongiosa, A. tizardi, A. verrilliana, and A. viridis. Common names they are known for are Branching Flower Pot Coral., Daisy Coral, Ball Coral, Flowerpot Coral, and Alveopora Coral.

Currently the most common species found in aquaria are A. catalai, A. allingi, and A. gigas.

Where Alveopora Corals Are Found: The Alveopora genus spans across the Indian Ocean and most of the Pacific Ocean's tropical waters including the Red Sea and the East, West and North Coasts of Australia.

Alveopora Coral Habitat: The Alveopora genus are found in a variety of areas of the reef in low to moderate current. For example, A catalai and A. gigas are found in turbid water protected from waves while A. verrilliana is found in clear water on reef slopes.

Status :

The following species from the Alveopora genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species:

A. allingi: Vulnerable (VU)
A. catalai: Near Threatened (NT)
A. daedalea: Vulnerable (VU)
A. excelsa: Endangered (EN)
A. fenestrata: Vulnerable (VU)
A. gigas: Vulnerable (VU)
A. japonica: Vulnerable (VU)
A. marionensis: Vulnerable (VU)
A. minuta: Endangered (EN)
A. ocellata: Data Deficient (DD)
A. spongiosa: Near Threatened (NT)
A. tizardi: Least Concern (LC)
A. verrilliana: Vulnerable (VU)
A. viridis: Near Threatened (NT)

Description :

What do Alveopora Corals look like: The Alveopora species form massive, round or branching skeletal formations, which are lightweight and porous. They are usually light brown, cream or green and can have shades of pale pink, yellow or blue. The oral discs or tentacle tips can be white or green. The tentacles can have the contrasting color of the oral discs give it that "daisy" appearance.

Alveopora corals have 12 tentacle tips and their corallites have 12 septa, unlike Goniopora which have 24 each. The polyps can reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) or more. The polyps extend during the day, yet are partially retracted at night. The tentacles are also shorter and smaller than on the Goniopora species. Life span is unknown.

A. catalai are only found on soft substrates in deep water or shallow turbulent water. They form stands that can grow to over 33 feet (10 cm) in diameter. They are typically pale brownish-pink when retracted and amber or yellowish with white oral discs when extended. Mature colonies form gnarled branches.
A. allingi have knobs on their tentacle's tips and are usually green, brown or yellow with white bases. The tentacles are thinner, and more tubular in shape with a blunt end. The oral disc has dots around a central dot.
A gigas is the largest of the Australian Alveopora, with tentacles similar to A. catalai. But the tentacles have white tips and white bases, with the rest of the polyp being brown or greenish-brown.
A. spongiosa has a very delicate skeleton, so much so that it can be cut with a knife. The tentacles are all very closely spaced and touching, forming what looks like a more solid surface. They are usually pale or dark brown and at times the polyps can have a white or greenish color on the tips. The colonies form thick plates or pillow-like appearances.
A. tizardi is very similar to A. spongiosa, but has smaller corallites. It is pale pinkish-brown to bright pink with gray tentacle tips and oral discs, unlike the usually brown color of A. spongiosa.
A. verrilliana is found in Hawaii and is dark green-brown, gray or chocolate brown with white centers. The tentacles taper to more of a point, as opposed to a blunt end.

Difficulty of Care :

Alveopora Coral Care: The Alveopora can be difficult to care for, even though they are "easier" than Goniopora. It is still debatable that they starve to death if not well fed, since some have done well in a low nutrient system, and some in a high nutrient system. Finding where your Alveopora species is generally found may be a key it it's food requirements. These corals are best left to experts.

Foods / Feeding :

Alveopora Coral Feeding: The Alveopora corals, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive many of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

In captivity, they may benefit from liquid nutrients like Marine Snow, Phytoplex, etc., yet may enjoy target feedings of plankton, brine shrimp, or other similar sized foods on occasion.

Aquarium Care :

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth. It has been noted that Iron and Manganese helps with degenerated tentacles, thus indicating a possible need for these supplements in captivity on a regular basis.

The following water supplements are suggested for Alveopora species:

Calcium: 400 to 450 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
Alkalinity: 3.2 TO 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
Strontium: 8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Branching Flowerpot Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production. A mature tank is recommended.

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. They should be kept in a reef that does not have excessive lighting, as it is damaging to their tissue. It has been noted that fluorescent lighting that has the blue end spectrum with high PAR value does seem to be enjoyed by Alveopora corals. This is an semi-peaceful genus.

Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallons (190 L) or larger
Marine Lighting: Low to Moderate
Temperature: 72° - 80° F (22° - 26° C)
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025
Water Movement: low to moderate
Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium

Compatibility and Social Behaviors :

Alveopora corals, although not aggressive, they can extend their polyps to the distance that is the same as the diameter of the main body, in order to ward off encroaching corals. The Branching Flower Pot Coral tends to be a favorite for Ocellaris Clownfish, also known as False Percula, if there is not a host anemone present.

Sex - Sexual differences : Unknown.

Breeding and Reproduction :

The large polyp stony (LPS) corals are male and female and can reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the wild they reproduce sexually by releasing eggs and sperm at the same time, resulting in a fertilized egg which then forms into a free-swimming planula larva. Eventually the planula larvae settles onto the substrate, becoming plankters. This then forms a tiny polyp which begins to excrete calcium carbonate and develops into a coral. Planula larvae are extremely vulnerable to predation, and very few survive.

Alveopora genus are gonochoristic. They will broadcast their spawn after a period of internal fertilization where they brood larvae internally. In captivity, propagation is only recommended once the Alveopora has been displaying normal behavior for at least 4 months. Use of an electric saw through the bone of the coral is the preferred method.

Potential Problems :

The Alveopora genus is susceptible to brown jelly or protozoan infections, bleaching, and high water flow.

Brown Jelly Brown jelly or protozoan infections can occur if there is any air trapped in the skeleton, so keep them away from bubbles of any kind. This brown jelly looks exactly like it sounds, and can infect the rest of the colony if not treated. This condition can be caused by poor water quality and/or tissue damage. Symptoms are polyp retraction and a white film covering areas of the colony with necrosis of the tissue. Death usually happens within a few days. You can try to treat this by removing the coral to a container with water from the main display, then brush or siphon off any visible brown jelly. Give the coral a freshwater dip in water with the same pH and temperature as the main tank for several minutes to kill a lot of the microorganisms. Use an antibiotic paste on the infect areas and/or a Lugol's dip. Cyanobacteria and brown jelly infections can be treated with Neomycin sulphite, Kanamycin and other broad-spectrum antibiotics. The pill can be pulverized into a fine powder, mixed with sea water to make a paste, and then applied to the wound, or affected site of the coral with a simple artists brush. Try to treat the coral with the least stressful method first. Place in a quarantine tank until coral recovers.
Bleaching Bleaching is common because of the over use of light in most aquariums. Metal Halides are very harsh and cause this to happen quite frequently.
High Water Flow High light and water flow will kill your Alveopora within a few months.

Availability :

Alveopora Corals for Sale: The Branching Flowerpot Coral Alveopora sp. are very easy to find at pet shops and on line. Online they can run about $60.00 to $80.00 USD or more depending on size and/or color.

References :

Animal-World References: Marine and Reef
Eric Borneman, Aquarium Corals : Selection, Husbandry, and Natural History , TFH Publications, 2001
Anthony Calfo, Book of Coral Propagation, Volume 1 Edition 2: Reef Gardening for Aquarists, Reading Trees; 2nd edition, 2007
J.E.N. Veron, Corals of Australia and the Indo-Pacific , University of Hawaii Press; 2 Rev Ed edition, 1993
Julian Sprung, Captive husbandry of G., spp. with remarks about the similar genus Alveopora, Advanced Aquarist's Online Magazine, Copyright 2003
Alveopora Coral, Reef Corner

2-Flowerpot Coral

Daisy Coral, Green Flowerpot Coral, Sunflower Coral
Ball Coral, Goniopora Coral, Goni, Yoo Stone Coral

Goniopora stokesi

A beautiful Flowerpot Coral is a tribute to the expert aquarist that can successfully keep it!

The Flowerpot Coral Goniopora stokesi has a very attractive and distinct appearance. They are hemispherical or grow in short thick columns. Their stalks are topped with a fringe of 24 polyps of mixed sizes surrounding the center, or mouth area. They look much like a cluster of potted flowers. The colors the Flowerpot Corals come in are generally green or brown, and at times have lighter polyp tips.

The G. stokesi extend their polyps during the day, yet are partially retracted at night. An interesting fact is that their nervous system is very intricate. If you touch one side of these corals, it sends impulses to the rest of the coral, and the other parts will pull in their tentacles! Currently the G. stokesi is the only free living Goniopora species, meaning it is not attached to the reef. They are found on soft substrates in calm waters.

The green Flowerpot Coral G. stokesi, along with the brown G. lobataare the most common Goniopora species found in aquaria. A newer Red Goniopora G. somaliensis has become popular due the fact that it is one of the hardiest Goniopora species. Some other common names they are known by are Daisy Coral, Ball Coral, Green Flowerpot Coral, Red Flowerpot Coral, Sunflower Coral, Goniopora Coral, Goni, Yoo-Hoo Coral, and Yoo Stone Coral.

The Goniopora species are a challenge to care for in captivity. This type of coral is not recommended for beginner aquarium keepers. Many find them don't survive for more than a year, though some experienced aquarists have been successful at keeping them for three years or more. The loss of these corals usually occurs slowly, as sort of a wasting condition.

The G. stokesi (Green Flowerpot Coral) can fair better than many, and even be propagated under the right conditions. They need a moderate water flow, water changes, carbonate supplementation, and calcium. They also need to be monitored frequently and kept consistent. A sandy substrate and planted sea grass in the tank has been noted as helpful, possibly from a nutritional standpoint.

Scientific name :

Family: Poritidae
Species: Goniopora stokesi

Status : The G. stokesi is on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species as Near Threatened (NT).

Difficulty of Care :

Goniopora Coral Care: The Goniopora corals are very difficult to care for. There is a push to try and figure out the right "combination" of light, current, supplements and food needs for this coral due to its dismal record in captivity. It is near impossible to know the exact location from which your Goniopora was extracted, though that will give a clue as to that specific animal's specific needs. This type of coral is not recommended for beginner aquarium keepers.

G. stokesi (Green Flowerpot Coral) can fair better than other species, and even be propagated under the right conditions. They can handle more light than G. lobata, in fact a photo time of 6-8 hours of 400 Watt 20k German brand Metal Halides was suggested by one aquarist. This has to be done with caution as they can bleach out if it is too much light.

The Flower Pot Coral needs a moderate water flow, water changes, carbonate supplementation, and calcium. They also need to be monitored frequently and kept consistent. A sandy substrate and plant sea grass in the tank has been noted as helpful, possibly from a nutritional standpoint. Stir up the detritus from your sand bed, since this seems to be another source of nutrition for them.

Foods / Feeding :

Goniopora Coral Feeding: The Goniopora corals, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive many of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

In captivity, they may benefit from liquid nutrients like Marine Snow, Phytoplex, and lipid-rich phytoplankton substitutes. Zooplankton will be accepted, but is not the main food source for them in the wild. Phytoplankton seems to be what 1/2 of their diet consists of. With all of the new plankton cultures that can be purchased, this could be a promising help to keeping them alive.

Aquarium Care :

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth. It has been noted that Iron and Manganese helps with degenerated tentacles, thus indicating a possible need for these supplements in captivity on a regular basis.

The following water supplements are suggested for Goniopora species:

Calcium: 400 to 450 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
Alkalinity: 3.2 TO 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
Strontium: 8 - 10

Due to the Similarity .... Here is a brief .. For more information click on the primary name ..

Aquarium Parameters :

A well-feed live rock/reef environment with a sandy substrate is what is needed for your Flowerpot Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production. A mature tank is recommended. It has been suggested that tanks without protein skimmers, that do not take out suspended matter or plankton, may be a clue to helping with the Goniopora's survival. Algae turf scrubbers also seem to be a benefit due to the increased micro fauna that results from this type of environment.

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide a moderate to high lighting and a moderate water flow for the best health of the G. stokesi. Plant sea grass in the tank, as it has been noted as helpful, possibly from a nutritional standpoint. Make sure they are anchored down well. Falls can also cause injury to the skeleton, and eventually death as well. This is an aggressive species, and should not be kept in a mixed reef.

Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallons (190 L) or larger
Marine Lighting: Moderate to strong
Temperature: 72° - 80° F (22° - 26° C)
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025
Water Movement: low to moderate
Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium
Sex - Sexual differences : Unknown.

3-Goniopora Coral

Flower Pot Coral, Daisy Coral, Sunflower Coral
Ball Coral, Goni, Yoo-Hoo Coral

Goniopora Sp.

The Goniopora Coral is a beautiful species that can look like a bouquet of flowers!

The Goniopora Corals Goniopora sp. are very pretty with a distinctive appearance These corals have several common names that depict their appearance. In the wild they are mostly columnar or massive, but some can also be encrusting. Their skeletons are lightweight porous skeletons, but their distinctive features are the elongated polyps topped with a fringe of tentacles surrounding a mouth area. They look much like a ball or cluster of potted flowers. Hence the common names like Daisy Coral, Flowerpot Coral, Sunflower Coral, and Ball Coral.

All the different Goniopora species have 24 polyps, but they are usually of different shapes and colors. The Goniopora species extend their polyps during the day, yet are partially retracted at night. An interesting fact is that their nervous system is very intricate. If you touch one side of these corals, it sends impulses to the rest of the coral, and the other parts will pull in their tentacles!

Colors the Goniopora Coral come in are usually green or brown, but can be shades from brown to pink, red, cream, yellow or gray. The green Flowerpot Coral G. stokesi, along with the brown G. lobata are the most common Goniopora species found in aquaria. A newer Red Goniopora G. somaliensishas become popular due its pretty color, and the fact that it is one of the hardiest Goniopora species. They G. lobataare about half the price of G. stokesi, but are harder to care for.

Currently the G. stokesi is the only free living Goniopora species, meaning it is not attached to the reef. They are found on soft substrates in calm waters. The G. lobata, G. somaliensis, and other species are not free living, but connected to the reef. Not being free living, these corals are broken from the reef. The G. lobata is the least hardy of these three. It is more likely to get infected because of this, and is generally more stressed from collection and shipment.

All the Goniopora species are a challenge to care for in captivity. This type of coral is not recommended for beginner aquarium keepers. They have a long a history of being difficult for the aquarist to keep successfully. Many find them don't survive for more than a year, though some experienced aquarists have been successful at keeping them for three years or more.

The loss of these corals usually occurs slowly, as sort of a wasting condition. There is a push to try and figure out the right "combination" of light, current, supplements and food needs for this coral due to its dismal record in captivity. Chances of success are greatly increased for the experienced aquarist that is dedicated to acquiring the specialized knowledge and skills, and providing the properly design system needed for its survival.

The G. stokesi (Green Flowerpot Coral) can fair better than many. They can handle more light than G. lobata and even be propagated under the right conditions. The newer Red Goniopora G. somaliensis seems to be a little more hardy than the other colors, yet still needs the correct environment to thrive. They need a moderate water flow, water changes, carbonate supplementation, and calcium. They also need to be monitored frequently and kept consistent. A sandy substrate and plant sea grass in the tank has been noted as helpful, possibly from a nutritional standpoint.

Scientific name :

Family: Poritidae
Species: Goniopora sp.

Status : The following species from the Goniopora genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species:

G. albiconus: Vulnerable (VU)
G. burgosi: Vulnerable (VU)
G. cellulosa: Vulnerable (VU)
G. ciliatus: Least Concern (LC)
G. columna: Near Threatened (NT)
G. djiboutiensis: Least Concern (LC)
G. eclipsensis: Least Concern (LC)
G. fruticosa: Least Concern (LC)
G. lobata: Near Threatened (NT)
G. minor: Near Threatened (NT)
G. norfolkensis: Least Concern (LC)
G. palmensis: Least Concern (LC)
G. pandoraensis: Least Concern (LC)
G. pearsoni: Least Concern (LC)
G. pendulus: Least Concern (LC)
G. planulata: Vulnerable (VU)
G. polyformis: Vulnerable (VU)
G. savignyi: Least Concern (LC)
G. somaliensis: Least Concern (LC)
G. stokesi: Near Threatened (NT)
G. stutchburyi: Least Concern (LC)
G. sultani: Least Concern (LC)
G. tenella: Near Threatened (NT)
G. tenuidens: Least Concern (LC)

Difficulty of Care :

Goniopora Coral Care: The Goniopora corals are very difficult to care for. There is a push to try and figure out the right "combination" of light, current, supplements and food needs for this coral due to its dismal record in captivity. It is near impossible to know the exact location from which your Goniopora was extracted, though that will give a clue as to that specific animal's specific needs. These corals are best left to experts, but here is a basic check list for a basic understanding of care for 3 species:

Flowerpot Coral G. stokesi can fair better than other species, and even be propagated under the right conditions. They can handle more light than G. lobata, in fact a photo time of 6-8 hours of 400 Watt 20k German brand Metal Halides was suggested by one aquarist. This has to be done with caution as they can bleach out if it is too much light.Success with moderate water flow, water changes, carbonate supplementation, and calcium need to be monitored frequently and kept consistent. Put on a sandy substrate and plant seagrass in the tank, as it has been noted as helpful, possibly from a nutritional standpoint. Stir up the detritus from your sand bed, since this seems to be another source of nutrition for them.
G. lobata is collected from turbid water that is nutrient rich. A medium water flow is required, and with the fast metabolism they have, feeding is important. Moderate lighting is recommended. Light should not be strong as they do not have a high intense light level in the wild.
G. somaliensis is bright red. It is found in Indonesia and it has been popular due the fact that it is one of the hardiest Goniopora species. It is not too picky, adapting to low light, low flow as well as bright light and medium flow. This species will accept small zooplankton.

Foods / Feeding :

Goniopora Coral Feeding: The Goniopora corals, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive many of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

In captivity, they may benefit from liquid nutrients like Marine Snow, Phytoplex, and lipid-rich phytoplankton substitutes. Zooplankton will be accepted, but is not the main food source for them in the wild. Phytoplankton seems to be what 1/2 of their diet consists of. With all of the new plankton cultures that can be purchased, this could be a promising help to keeping them alive.

Aquarium Care :

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth. It has been noted that Iron and Manganese helps with degenerated tentacles, thus indicating a possible need for these supplements in captivity on a regular basis.

The following water supplements are suggested for Goniopora species:

Calcium: 400 to 450 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
Alkalinity: 3.2 TO 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
Strontium: 8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Goniopora Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production. Make sure they are anchored down well. With their long heavy tentacles, they can "fall" or be dragged into and onto other corals by the water flow. Falls can also cause injury to the skeleton, and eventually death as well. A mature tank is recommended. The Flowerpot Coral G. stokesi, the only free living Gonioporaspecies in the genus, has some other unique requirements, including a sandy substrate.

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. It has been suggested that a tank without protein skimmers, that do not take out suspended matter or plankton, may be a clue to helping with the Goniopora's survival. Algae turf scrubbers also seem to be a benefit due to the increased micro fauna that results from this type of environment. This is an aggressive genus, and should not be kept in a mixed reef.

Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallons (190 L) or larger
Marine Lighting: Moderate to strong
Temperature: 72° - 80° F (22° - 26° C)
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025
Water Movement: low to moderate
Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium
Sex - Sexual differences : Unknown.

Family: Trachyphylliidae

1-Open Brain Coral

Folded Brain Coral, Crater Coral, Green Open Brain Coral

Trachyphyllia geoffroyi

The Open Brain Coral has brightly colored polyps with fluorescent properties, it will simply glow under actinic lighting!

The Open Brain Coral Trachyphyllia geoffroyi is attractive, and unique. These corals are most often found as a free living, solitary individual living along a reef base on muddy or sandy bottoms, or in seagrass beds. They are often found living among other free-living corals in the Fungiidae family such as the popular Disk Corals Fungia sp.. Though they can form colonies, they are most often a single polyp rather than a massive expanse. Their polyps are large fleshy mantles, and they come in a variety of bright colors including yellow, red, pink, brown, blue or green.

T. geoffroyi are known as 'secondary' free-living corals. This is because as juveniles, like most other corals, they are attached to something solid.Trachyphyllia will attach to a stone or the shell of a bivalve of gastropod. But as they grow they get heavier and then break off, becoming free-living polyps with a cone shaped bottom that helps them anchor in soft bottom environments. Some names they are commonly know by are Open Brain Coral, Crater Coral, Dome Brain Coral, Folded Brain Coral, and Green Open Brain Coral.

The Open Brain Coral is moderately easy to care for, they only need a lower moderate light and gentle water movement. The green variety handles a moderate lighting better. They must not be placed where sand or debris will collect on its surface, on rockwork where it can fall, or anywhere that sharp objects can lacerate its tissues. The most important care that must be exercised for a long lasting and healthy coral is daily feeding. They are voracious eaters, and if not fed well can start to recede. The Trachyphyllia genus is also very responsive to fragmenting.

Ultimately, this coral has been known to thrive and live many years in one aquarium and yet perish in another. Coral tissue receding can lead to disease, algae growth on the skeleton, and predation. This results in more receding and eventually death. This can be helped by avoiding improper placement, too high intensity lighting, and/or not feeding as often as needed.

The science of classifying corals is an ongoing process. On the family level, the Trachyphyliidae are extremely close to the Faviidae family, especially the Moseleya genus. Because of this, Vernon says in his book "Corals of Australia and the Indo-Pacific", that its status is somewhat arbitrary. This family is distinguished by its growth form, by having large paliform lobes (which are large vertical protrusions above the septal margin), and by fine septal teeth.

The Open Brain Coral T. geoffroyi is currently a valid species in the this family, and in the Trachyphyllia genus. However its close relative, the Pacific Rose Coral T. radiata, has been bounced around a bit more. The Pacific Rose is very much like the Open Brain Coral, but it is always distinctly round, and usually more folded in form. Its valley walls are fused and it also has a flattened bottom, rather than a cone-shaped one. Though still in the Trachyphyliidae family, it had previously been classified in its own genus as Wellsophyllia radiata, then back to the Trachyphylliagenus. There is still ongoing discussion on where it should be classified. It can be found referred to as one or the other, but generally as Trachyphyllia radiata.

Scientific name :

Family: Mussidae
Species: Trachyphyllia geoffroyi

Status :

Trachyphyllia are listed on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species as Near Threatened (NT)

Difficulty of Care :

Trachyphyllia Coral Care: The T. geoffroyi is moderately easy to care for, they only need a lower moderate light and gentle water movement. The green variety handles a moderate lighting better. The most important care that must be exercised for a long lasting and healthy coral is daily feeding. They are voracious eaters, and if not fed well can start to recede. The polyps tentacles come out at night to feed, and may come out during the day when food is present.

Foods / Feeding :

Trachyphyllia Coral Feeding: The Trachyphyllia genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

In captivity, T. geoffroyi can be fed at night when the tentacles are out, but they will come out during the day as well, if it senses food in the water. Feed it daily. They will eat mysis, fortified brine shrimp, rotifers, Cyclopeeze and other similarly sized meaty foods. Larger pieces than a typical mysis is not digestible, and although the animal "accepts" it, it will regurgitate it up later in the night. So use smaller foods or your coral can waste away in a little over a year.

Aquarium Care:

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

The following water supplements are suggested for Trachyphyllia species: Iodine and trace minerals can be helpful.

Calcium: 400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
Alkalinity: 3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
Phosphates: 0, zero.
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
Strontium: 8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Open Brain Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. Have an area of substrate that is free from rocks or other sharp objects to put your Trachyphyllia. Placing it in rock work can cause the flesh to be lacerated, leading to disease and death. A mature tank is recommended.

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide a low to moderate and low to moderate lighting for the best health. If it tumbles from the rock work, that usually will lead to tissue damage and eventual death. Do not placeTrachyphyllia corals where debris and detritus can collect on its surface. This is a peaceful species, with no sweeper tentacles.

Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) or larger
Marine Lighting: Low to moderate
Temperature: 74° - 83° F (23° - 28° C)
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.025
Water Movement: Low to moderate, gentle
Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium
Sex - Sexual differences : Unknown.

2-Pacific Rose Coral

Open Brain Coral, Green Open Brain Coral, Dome Brain Coral
Wellso Flat Brain Coral, Welsophyllia Brain

Trachyphyllia radiata

Despite confusion with the Pacific Rose Coral's scientific name, we all know that "a rose by any other name... is still a rose"!

The striking Pacific Rose Coral Trachyphyllia radiata is a gorgeous large polyp stony (LPS) coral. Their polyps are large fleshy mantles, and they come in varying shades of brilliant metallic greens, reds, and pinks. It is very much like the Open Brain Coral Trachyphyllia geoffroyi, but it is always distinctly round, and usually more folded in form. Unlike the Open Brain, its valley walls are fused and it also has a flattened bottom, rather than a cone-shaped one.

The Pacific Rose Corals are always found attached to a hard substrate and will form colonies. They inhabit deeper waters under shaded overhangs, from 98 to 131 feet (30 - 40 m) in depth. In contrast, the T. geoffroyi is most often found as a free living, solitary individual living along a reef base on muddy or sandy bottoms, or in seagrass beds.

The science of classifying corals is an ongoing process. On the family level, the Trachyphyliidae are extremely close to the Faviidae family, especially the Moseleya genus. Because of this, Vernon says in his book "Corals of Australia and the Indo-Pacific", that its status is somewhat arbitrary. This family is distinguished by its growth form, by having large paliform lobes (which are large vertical protrusions above the septal margin), and by fine septal teeth.

The Pacific Rose Coral T. radiata is in the Trachyphyliidae family, but it has been bounced around a bit between genera. It had previously been classified in its own genus as Wellsophyllia radiata, then back to the Trachyphylliagenus. Yet there is still ongoing discussion on where it should be classified. It can be found referred to as one or the other, but generally as Trachyphyllia radiata.

The Pacific Rose Coral is moderately easy to care for, they only need a low to moderate light and gentle water movement. They must not be placed where sand or debris will collect on its surface, or on rockwork where it can fall, or anywhere sharp objects can lacerate its tissues. The most important care that must be exercised for a long lasting and healthy coral is daily feeding. They are voracious eaters, and if not fed well can start to recede. TheTrachyphyllia genus is also very responsive to fragmenting.

Ultimately, the Trachyphyllia has been known to thrive and live many years in one aquarium and yet perish in another. Coral tissue receding can lead to disease, algae growth on the skeleton, and predation. This results in more receding and eventually death. This can be helped by avoiding improper placement, too high intensity lighting, and/or not feeding as often as needed.

Scientific name Family: Mussidae
Species: Trachyphyllia radiata

Status :

Trachyphyllia are listed on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species as Near Threatened (NT).

Difficulty of Care :

Trachyphyllia Coral Care: The T. radiata is moderately easy to care for, they only need a lower moderate light and gentle water movement. The green variety handles a moderate lighting better. The most important care that must be exercised for a long lasting and healthy coral is daily feeding. They are voracious eaters, and if not fed well can start to recede. The polyps tentacles come out at night to feed, and may come out during the day when food is present.

Foods / Feeding :

Trachyphyllia Coral Feeding: The Trachyphyllia genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

In captivity, T. radiata can be fed at night when the tentacles are out, but they will come out during the day as well, if it senses food in the water. Feed it daily. They will eat mysis, fortified brine shrimp, rotifers, Cyclopeeze and other similarly sized meaty foods. Larger pieces than a typical mysis is not digestible, and although the animal "accepts" it, it will regurgitate it up later in the night. So use smaller foods or your coral can waste away in a little over a year.

Aquarium Care :

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

The following water supplements are suggested for Trachyphyllia species: Iodine and trace minerals can be helpful.

Calcium: 400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
Alkalinity: 3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
Phosphates: 0, zero.
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
Strontium: 8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Pacific Rose Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. Have an area of substrate that is free from rocks or other sharp objects to put your Trachyphyllia. Placing it in rock work can cause the flesh to be lacerated, leading to disease and death. A mature tank is recommended.

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide a low to moderate and low to moderate lighting for the best health. If it tumbles from the rock work, that usually will lead to tissue damage and eventual death. Do not placeTrachyphyllia corals where debris and detritus can collect on its surface. This is a peaceful species, with no sweeper tentacles.

Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) or larger
Marine Lighting: Low to moderate
Temperature: 74° - 83° F (23° - 28° C)
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.025
Water Movement: Low to moderate, gentle
Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium
Sex - Sexual differences Unknown.

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