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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 corals, known as Meteor Coral or Meteor Shower Cyphastrea due to their striking blue base with red polyps, boast numerous rare color variants. They thrive in low-light environments and should be placed away from high light exposure to ensure their well-being.
Demands and Hardiness
Cyphastrea are low-maintenance corals that perform best in dimly lit locations within reef aquariums. These corals are sensitive to high light conditions and are known to struggle in medium to high light settings. They have a moderate water flow requirement and can be propagated extensively in captivity, making them a suitable choice for aquaculture.
Lighting
Cyphastrea corals do not demand high-intensity lighting and typically thrive in low light conditions. Exposing them to excessive light levels can lead to poor health and growth. Therefore, it is recommended to place them in areas with minimal lighting within the aquarium.
Water Flow
Maintaining moderate water movement is advisable for Cyphastrea corals to ensure optimal health and nutrient uptake. Adequate water flow helps in maintaining a healthy environment around the coral, preventing detritus buildup and facilitating the delivery of essential nutrients.
Feeding
Cyphastrea corals predominantly rely on the products produced by their zooxanthellae for nutrition. Supplementing their diet with phytoplankton can be beneficial, as it promotes the growth of rotifers that serve as a nutritious food source. Additionally, liquid and powdery foods rich in Phytoplankton and Zooplankton are suitable for feeding Cyphastrea, with finely ground meaty foods being an alternative option.
Propagation
With extensive propagation efforts in captivity, Cyphastrea corals have become a notable candidate for aquaculture. Their ability to proliferate under controlled conditions has contributed to their availability in the aquarium trade while supporting conservation efforts in the wild.
Localization & Habitat
Indigenous to the Indo-Pacific region, Cyphastrea corals are commonly found in the islands of Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. These corals inhabit diverse reef ecosystems and play a vital role in the marine biodiversity of their native habitats.