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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, also known as Meteor Coral, are captivating corals characterized by various color variants, with the popular Meteor Shower Cyphastrea showcasing a blue base and red polyps. These corals typically exhibit stunning hues, making them a sought-after choice among reef aquarists. Cyphastrea thrives in low-light environments and tends to struggle when exposed to high-intensity lighting, making them ideal for placement in dimly lit areas within aquariums.
Demands and Hardiness
Cyphastrea are relatively low-maintenance corals that prefer lower light conditions, making them well-suited for setups with minimal lighting. Placing them in shaded areas or using light diffusers can help meet their specific lighting requirements. These corals rely on their zooxanthellae for nourishment and may benefit from supplementary feeding with phytoplankton to support the growth of rotifers, which serve as a food source. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles are ideal for sustaining Cyphastrea's nutritional needs.
Lighting
Cyphastrea thrives in low-light environments and tends to exhibit poor growth and health outcomes in settings with medium to high light intensity. Maintaining dim lighting conditions or utilizing light fixtures with adjustable settings can create an optimal habitat for these corals to flourish.
Water Flow
Moderate water movement is recommended for Cyphastrea, as excessive flow can hinder their feeding capabilities and overall well-being. Providing a moderate water flow within the aquarium can help simulate their natural habitat and promote proper nutrient distribution around the coral.
Feeding
Cyphastrea primarily feeds on the products of their zooxanthellae and benefits from the addition of phytoplankton as a supplementary food source. Feeding them finely ground meaty foods in a paste-like consistency can also support their nutritional requirements. Rotifers that proliferate from phytoplankton consumption serve as a valuable food source for Cyphastrea, enhancing their feeding regimen and overall health.
Propagation
Cyphastrea has been successfully propagated in captivity, making it an excellent candidate for aquaculture initiatives. By employing proper propagation techniques, aquarists can contribute to the conservation and proliferation of Cyphastrea within the marine aquarium hobby.
Localization & Habitat
Originating from the Indo-Pacific region, Cyphastrea can be found in various island locations such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat includes reef environments with subdued lighting and moderate water flow, reflecting the conditions that are conducive to their growth and survival.