Coral Of The Week - Pachyclavularia, Star Polyps

[seffieuk]

Pachyclavularia - Star Polyps

Love them or loath them?

Lets hear about your experiences and

see some of those amazing photos​

 

[seffieuk]

This coral is very fast-spreading, to the point where it can overgrow other corals. It is tolerant of both low and high level lighting as well as varied water currents.

This coral should be blown clear of detritus occasionally to prevent slime and filamentous algae from gaining a foothold.The pedal attachments of nuisance anemones, such as Aiptasia, can cause degeneration of the mats of this coral. When the mat starts to decompose, it falls apart. While this breakdown is fairly uncommon, it can spread through even healthy colonies. In these cases, the affected area should be pared away, even into the healthy area, and siphoned out of the tank. The balance of the coral will rapidly reproduce to cover the bare area, again.

Colors:
Purple to reddish-violet are the norm for this coral. The polyps are usually brown or bright green, but other variations may occur.Green, yellow or white polyp centers usually contrast with the polyp tentacles. This coral fluoresces beautifully under actinic blue lighting.

Care Level:
Easy. Good starter corals for beginners.


Special Notes:
There have been many reports of an adverse reaction by this coral with the introduction of iodine (in the form of Lugol's solution) to the aquarium water. This solution can cause the lack of expansion by a colony, or even death. It is thought that the reactivity of elemental iodine may be the cause.
This coral also seems to be sensitive to aluminum oxide, which is used in some phosphate removing sponges.

 

[lizvenables]

Hey Seffieuk maybe put star polyps in the title? just so the newer peeps know to check it out

 

[seffieuk]

Hey Seffieuk maybe put star polyps in the title? just so the newer peeps know to check it out

Good idea

Seffie x