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Datasheet
| Care Description | Pectinia, or Antler coral, grow in a combination of pillar and plating structures. This unique growth pattern gives this coral a very elegant look. In the past only drab colored specimens made it into the marketplace. Today many colorful varieties are available. Please see below for additional care tips for Pectinia. |
| Water Flow | Low - 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
Pectinia, also known as Antler coral, is characterized by its unique growth pattern of pillar and plating structures, giving it an elegant appearance. While previously drab in color, many vibrant varieties are now available in the market, such as the Sunrise Pectinia with a purple-green base and pink-orange center speckled with tiny blue or green sparkles.
Demands and Hardiness
Pectinia thrives under low to moderate lighting conditions, with lower lighting being preferable. They prefer low to moderate water flow to prevent sediment buildup in their depressions. This coral heavily relies on its zooxanthellae for nutrition and can benefit from additional phytoplankton and small food particles.
Lighting
For optimal growth and health, Pectinia should be placed under low to moderate lighting conditions. They tend to do best when exposed to lower levels of light.
Water Flow
Pectinia thrives in environments with low to moderate water movement. Sufficient flow is necessary to prevent sediment accumulation in the coral's depressions.
Feeding
Pectinia primarily feeds on the products of its zooxanthellae. Supplementing their diet with phytoplankton and other small food particles can enhance their nutritional intake.
Propagation
Propagation of Pectinia has been successful through fragmentation. Varieties with pronounced sharp ridges may be more challenging to propagate compared to other types within the genus.
Localization & Habitat
Pectinia is commonly found in the islands of the Indo-Pacific region, including Fiji, Tonga, and the Solomon Islands. Their natural habitat consists of reef structures where they can flourish in the warm waters with specific pH and salinity levels.