Birdsnest Coral Care Guide – Care, Feeding & Lighting Tips

Introduction

Birdsnest corals (Seriatopora species) are among the most popular SPS corals due to their intricate branching structure, brilliant coloration, and rapid growth. Their delicate appearance makes them a stunning centerpiece in SPS-dominated reef tanks. While beautiful, Birdsnest corals require stable conditions, strong lighting, and turbulent flow to thrive. Due to their relatively low price and hardier nature, birdsnest corals make a popular option for intermediate aquarists looking to get their feet wet with SPS.

Scientific Name & Identification

Birdsnest corals belong to the family Pocilloporidae. They are easily identified by their thin, fragile branches that form dense, tangled colonies. The polyps are small and tightly packed, giving the coral a fine-textured appearance. Common color morphs include pink, purple, green, yellow, and multi-colored variations, many of which glow vividly under actinic lighting.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Birdsnest corals inhabit shallow reef crests and slopes across the Indo-Pacific. These environments are characterized by strong surge, turbulent water flow, and intense sunlight. Their delicate branching helps maximize surface area for light absorption and feeding.

Aquarium Care & Setup

To replicate their natural environment, Birdsnest corals require:

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026

• Flow: Strong, turbulent flow to prevent debris buildup

• Lighting: Medium to High-intensity reef lighting (150–400 PAR) for best coloration

• Placement: Upper to mid-level rockwork with enough open space for branches to expand

Feeding

Although Birdsnest corals primarily rely on their symbiotic zooxanthellae for energy, they can benefit from supplemental feedings of fine particulate coral foods, phytoplankton, or amino acid supplements. Feeding helps support faster growth and enhanced coloration.

Growth and Behavior

Birdsnest corals are fast growers, forming dense, bush-like colonies that quickly become large. Because their branches are thin and fragile, care must be taken to avoid breakage during handling or aquascaping. Broken branches can often be fragged and grown into new colonies.

Tankmates

These corals do well in SPS-dominated tanks with stable parameters. Ideal tankmates include tangs, wrasses, gobies, anthias, and peaceful invertebrates. Avoid aggressive coral species and fish that nip at polyps, as Birdsnest branches are fragile and easily damaged.

Conclusion

Birdsnest corals are one of the most rewarding SPS species for aquarists who can provide stable water conditions, strong flow, and high lighting. Their fast growth and brilliant coloration make them a showpiece coral that can transform a reef into a vibrant, living structure.

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