More info
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 renowned for their stunning coloration, with the popular Meteor Shower Cyphastrea displaying a striking blue base and red polyps. While this genus encompasses various rare color variants, they are typically identified by their beauty and vibrancy. These corals are classified as low-light species, thriving in dimly lit environments and struggling in high-light conditions.
Demands and Hardiness (Setup)
Cyphastrea necessitates lower light levels compared to other coral species, making them ideal for placement in shaded areas within reef aquariums. To ensure optimal health, it is recommended to position them in the dimmest sections of the aquarium. Their hardiness is evident in their ability to adapt to varying conditions, although they are particularly sensitive to intense lighting.
Lighting
Cyphastrea thrives in low-light settings, displaying optimal growth and coloration under minimal illumination. Contrary to some corals, they do not require high-intensity lighting and are prone to experiencing difficulties in brightly lit reef tanks.
Water Flow
Moderate water movement is essential for Cyphastrea, as they prefer a balanced flow within the aquarium. Providing moderate circulation helps maintain their health and supports their feeding behavior.
Feeding
Cyphastrea primarily relies on the products generated by their symbiotic zooxanthellae for nutrition. Additionally, they benefit from consuming phytoplankton, which indirectly contributes to their diet by fostering a population of rotifers. Feeding liquid or powdered plankton-based foods to meet the coral's dietary needs is recommended. In the absence of phytoplankton, finely ground meaty foods can serve as an alternative, ensuring a paste-like consistency for easy consumption.
Propagation
Due to extensive propagation efforts in captivity, Cyphastrea is deemed an excellent candidate for aquaculture. The genus has been successfully propagated in controlled environments, contributing to its sustainability and availability within the reefkeeping community.
Localization & Habitat
Cyphastrea can be found in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically inhabiting islands such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the renowned Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat reflects their preference for low-light conditions, highlighting their adaptability to diverse marine environments.