Clavularia viridis

(Quoy & Gaimard, 1833)

Clove Polyps, Palm Tree Clove, Fern Polyps

Range: Indo-Pacific Ocean: Widely distributed.

Natural Environment: Found along upper reef slopes and upper hardpan areas of lagoons.

General Husbandry: Specimens should be placed in aquarium upper areas along well-lit rocky structures where they should be secured/glued, so they do not fall into darker areas of the aquarium. Soon, will then send out runners that will stick to hard surfaces, which will also help secure the main specimen, and develop into new polyps.

Somewhat similar in 'growth,' to Pachyclavularia violacea/viridis (Green star Polyps) i.e., an encrusting species, however, it expands via a creeping mat-like growth.

Generally very hardy and prefers moderate to strong light and gentle water flow.

Taxonomy:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Cnidaria

Class: Anthozoa

Subclass: Octocorallia

Order: Alcyonacea

Family: Clavulariidae

Genus: Clavularia

FYI: Seems to do better when alkalinity is maintained above 3.0 mq/l.

Experience Level: Beginner

Diet: Photosynthetic

Temperament: Peaceful

Aquarium Environment: Reef or fish-only aquarium

Coral Safe:Yes

Fish Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes

Acclimation Time: 30 minutes+

Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy

Calcium (Ca): 380 - 430 mg/l

Alkalinity: 2.5 - 3.0 meq/l

Phosphate (PO4): <0.05 mg/l

Magnesium (Mg): approx. 1350 mg/l (relate to specific gravity)

Strontium (Sr) 8 - 10 mg/l

Temperature Range: 72 - 83°F (22 - 28°C)

Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons

Lighting: PAR 300 - 450

Water Movement: WM 1 - 2

Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025

pH: 8.0 - 8.4

Iodine/Trace Elements Monitor/as necessary to maintain quality seawater.