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Datasheet
| Care Description | Stylophora are a branching small polyp stony coral (SPS) from the Family Pocilloporidae. It is commonly referred to as a Cat’s Paw Coral. They are less commonly seen than most other SPS for sale however they make a great addition to any high light, high flow reef system. Please see below for more care tips for Stylophora. |
| Water Flow | Strong |
| 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
Stylophora, commonly known as Cat's Paw Coral, are branching small polyp stony corals (SPS) belonging to the Pocilloporidae family. The Rainbow Stylophora strain exhibits a vibrant color combination with a bright green base, pink and teal polyps, and pink growth tips.
Demands and Hardiness
Stylophora thrive in high light and high flow reef systems, making them a valuable addition to such setups. They are less commonly available for sale compared to other SPS corals but offer unique aesthetics and hardiness once established. Propagation in captivity has been successful, highlighting their adaptability and suitability for aquaculture. When introducing Stylophora to a new tank, starting with frags is recommended to avoid potential die-off issues experienced by larger colonies adjusting to a new environment.
Lighting
Moderate to high lighting is preferred for Stylophora, as it enhances their coloration and overall health. Intense LED lighting has been observed to bring out the best coloration in these corals, showcasing their vibrant hues effectively.
Water Flow
Stylophora thrive in strong water movement, mimicking the natural surge zones where they are commonly found in the wild. Adequate flow is essential for ensuring proper nutrient distribution within the colony, especially reaching the center parts to prevent stagnation.
Feeding
Stylophora predominantly feed on phytoplankton and zooplankton, requiring food in liquid or powdery forms with particle sizes ranging from 20um to 1mm. Feeding them with a mixture of these small food particles using a turkey baster can help maintain their nutritional needs and contribute to their well-being.
Propagation
Stylophora species have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them an ideal candidate for aquaculture efforts. Branching SPS corals like Stylophora exhibit diverse shapes and colors based on their reef location, emphasizing the need to allow colonies to adapt and grow in a specific tank setup rather than introducing large colonies that may struggle to acclimate and survive.
Localization & Habitat
Stylophora are naturally found in the Indo-Pacific region, including islands such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their preference for strong water flow and high light conditions in these habitats reflects their adaptation to thrive in challenging reef environments.