Common names include Torch Coral, Column Brain Coral, Trumpet Coral, Bullseye Coral, Cat's Eye Coral, and Candy Cane Coral. They are distributed from eastern Africa to the south central Pacific Ocean, and from the Indian Ocean to Japan. This branching photosynthetic LPS coral has single polyps at the end of each branch. In nature, they are found on shallow reef slopes, lagoons, and sandy bottom areas where there is reduced wave action, yet intense light.
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. They do well under either metal halide or fluorescent, medium to good water circulation, and will not tolerate hair algae. Benefits from occasional feedings.
Back to Animal Library Index...