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Datasheet
| Care Description | Stylocoeniella are an encrusting stony coral that has features similar to small polyp stony corals such as Montipora but also bear some similarities to the small polyp varieties of Goniopora depending on how extended the polyps are. It does have a common name, that being “thorn coral” because they often host these wormlike critters whose tubes extend out from the colony making it look like a thorny ball. Please see below for more care tips. |
| 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
Stylocoeniella, also known as "thorn coral," is an encrusting stony coral that shares characteristics with small polyp stony corals like Montipora and Goniopora. The Burning Banana Stylocoeniella, a visually striking variety, features a yellow-green base and red polyps, displaying outward encrusting before forming mounds.
Demands and Hardiness
For optimal growth and polyp extension, it is recommended to maintain high light levels and moderate water flow when caring for Stylocoeniella. They are best kept in low to moderate lighting conditions, around 50 to 100 PAR, although experiments with brighter light for enhanced coloration are ongoing. The coral can be sensitive to very bright lighting, risking coral bleaching if exposed to excessive light intensity.
Water Flow
Stylocoeniella thrives in low to medium flow environments. Adequate flow helps keep the coral clean by preventing detritus buildup, which can lead to coral dieback. Lower flow also allows the coral to extend its polyps, enhancing its appearance. Providing periodic low flow can aid in feeding, as the coral is not aggressive in capturing food, especially due to its small polyps.
Lighting
Stylocoeniella is commonly kept in low to moderate light, with potential for brighter coloration under higher light intensity, though such conditions are less explored. Sudden exposure to excessive light can result in coral burning, necessitating a quick relocation to dimmer conditions if signs of bleaching appear.
Feeding
This coral primarily feeds on small particles like Phytoplankton and Zooplankton. Feeding with liquid and powdery foods containing amino acids and small zooplankton is recommended. While most hobbyists do not target feed Stylocoeniella, occasional spot feeding can be beneficial, especially in tanks with strong flow restricting the coral's feeding opportunities.
Propagation
Stylocoeniella has been successfully propagated in captivity and shows promise for aquaculture efforts. With sustainable harvesting practices, it is feasible to increase the availability of this coral in the market.
Localization & Habitat
Originally found in Indonesia and Australia, Stylocoeniella was once rare in the aquarium trade but became more accessible due to successful propagation efforts. The coral's ease of propagation has contributed to its increasing commercial availability, with potential for the discovery of new color variations in the future.