Species Name: Caulastrea furcata

Authority: Dana, 1846

Common Name: Torch Coral

Range: Indo-Pacific Ocean, Australia, Malaysia, and Eastern Africa

Natural Environment: Protected reef slopes where there are sandy substrates

General Husbandry: Has a temperature range of 74 to 83°F (23 - 28°C). Daytime polyp expansion benefits the gathering of light to power photosynthesis. During the night polyps contract somewhat and tentacles appear along their outer edge to catch plankton prey. This more common species has polyps with a green center surrounded by a brown outer ring, sometimes with white radial lines. The green polyped species seems be much easier than the red polyp species to maintain. A good beginners coral as it requires moderate water movement and withstands turbid/poor water quality. Benefits from occasional feedings.