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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, commonly known as Antler coral, exhibits a unique growth form characterized by a blend of pillar and plating structures, imparting an elegant aesthetic. Historically, market availability was limited to dull-colored specimens; however, modern cultivation techniques have diversified the color palette, offering vibrant variations like the midnight blue/purple base with neon green eyes found in the Voidwalker Pectinia strain.
Demands and Hardiness
Pectinia thrives in setups featuring a combination of pillar and plating structures, with the Antler coral displaying optimum growth when provided with a stable environment. This coral species heavily relies on the products of its zooxanthellae, making phytoplankton and small morsels beneficial additions to its diet. Additionally, successful propagation has been achieved through fragmentation, although varieties with sharper ridges may pose challenges in propagation efforts. It is advisable to maintain water parameters within the ranges of 8-12 kh, 8.1-8.4 pH, a specific gravity of 1.023-1.026, and a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C.
Lighting
For optimal growth and health, Pectinia corals require low to moderate lighting conditions, with lower light levels typically yielding the best results.
Water Flow
Moderate water movement ranging from low to moderate is recommended for Pectinia corals. Sufficient water flow is essential to prevent sediment accumulation in the coral's depressions, ensuring its well-being.
Feeding
In addition to deriving nutrients from zooxanthellae, Pectinia may benefit from supplemental feeding such as phytoplankton and other small food particles to maintain its health and vibrancy.
Propagation
Successful fragmentation techniques have been employed for propagating Pectinia corals, although varieties with prominent ridges may present challenges in propagation endeavors.
Localization & Habitat
Pectinia corals are native to the islands of the Indo-Pacific region, including locales such as Fiji, Tonga, and the Solomon Islands. These corals typically inhabit reef environments in these tropical regions, contributing to the biodiversity and ecosystem composition of the surrounding marine habitats.