Common names include Tree Coral, Carnation Coral, Ledge Coral, and Cauliflower Coral. These very colorful non-photosynthetic tree-like soft corals, and probably contain well over 100 species. Found only on deep-water ledges and overhangs and/or in caves. They require little or no lighting, moderate water movement, and a steady diet of phytoplankton. Usually a white body with red polyps. Other colorful species, e.g., red body with white polyps, or white body with yellow polyps are sometimes available. Not easy to maintain because of its feeding requirements. Will not tolerate hair algae. I have found a product called Combo-Vital, available from Marc Weiss Companies to be an excellent foodstuff for these animals. Occasionally a small snail (Primovula bellocqae) will be found feeding upon this type coral, and it should be removed.
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