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Datasheet
| Care Description | Cyphastrea are sometimes referred to as a Meteor Coral however most reef aquarists today simply refer to them by their scientific name. The most common color variant of Cyphastrea is a blue base with red polyps called a Meteor Shower Cyphastrea. It turns out though that there are many rare color variants of this beautiful coral that are every bit as spectacular. Cyphastrea are a very low light coral and do poorly when exposed to high light. In our systems at Tidal Gardens, we try to find the dimmest locations to keep them. Please see below for additional care tips for Cyphastrea. |
| Water Flow | Moderate |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.026 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
Cyphastrea, commonly known as Meteor Coral, are prized for their stunning color variations, with the popular Meteor Shower Cyphastrea featuring a blue base and red polyps. This coral genus offers rare color morphs, adding to its visual appeal. Cyphastrea thrives in low light conditions and is best kept away from high light exposure in reef aquariums.
Demands and Hardiness
Cyphastrea is a challenging find, with this particular color morph boasting a purple body, yellow tentacles, and red polyp centers. As with other Cyphastrea species, this coral flourishes in low light environments, making it crucial to place them in dimly lit areas within aquarium setups. They are known to survive best when provided with minimal light levels.
Lighting
Cyphastrea exhibits a preference for low light, unlike many other coral species. Maintaining extremely low light conditions in the aquarium is essential for the optimal growth and health of Cyphastrea. Medium to high light levels can cause detrimental effects on this coral, making it crucial to avoid exposing it to such lighting intensities.
Water Flow
Moderate water movement is ideal for Cyphastrea, ensuring a healthy aquatic environment within the tank. Providing consistent and gentle water flow helps in maintaining the well-being of the coral, promoting proper nutrient distribution and waste removal for its sustenance.
Feeding
Cyphastrea predominantly relies on the products produced by its zooxanthellae for nourishment. Introducing liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles within the range of 20um-1mm can support the dietary needs of this coral. Additionally, feeding the coral finely ground meaty foods, preferably in a paste-like consistency, can serve as an alternative source of nutrition.
Propagation
Cyphastrea has been successfully propagated in captivity, making it an excellent candidate for aquaculture initiatives. The genus demonstrates resilience to propagation efforts, contributing to conservation and sustainability practices within the marine hobbyist community.
Localization & Habitat
Originating from the Indo-Pacific region, Cyphastrea is found in various island locations, including Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Its natural habitat includes diverse marine ecosystems characterized by specific water conditions conducive to its growth, such as stable pH levels ranging from 8.1 to 8.4 and a temperature range of 22.2 to 25.6 degrees Celsius. Maintaining appropriate salinity levels between 1.023-1.026 and carbonate hardness (KH) between 8-12 is essential for replicating its native habitat in aquarium settings.