Duncan Coral Care Guide – Care, Feeding & Lighting Tips

Introduction

Duncan corals, also known as Whisker or Daisy corals, are a staple in reef aquariums. Their flowing tentacles, branching skeletons, and ease of care make them one of the most beginner-friendly LPS corals available. Hardy yet beautiful, they thrive in a wide range of setups and reward aquarists with steady growth and eye-catching movement.

Scientific Name & Identification

Duncanopsammia axifuga belongs to the family Dendrophylliidae. They are characterized by a branching skeleton with fleshy polyps that extend long tentacles. Their colors often include green, purple, or cream centers with contrasting tips that glow vividly under actinic lighting.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Duncan corals are native to the Indo-Pacific, especially in Australian waters. They inhabit reef slopes and sheltered lagoon environments where water flow is moderate, giving them access to both sunlight and planktonic food.

Aquarium Care & Setup

To replicate their natural environment in a reef tank, provide the following:

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026

• Lighting: Low to moderate (50–150 PAR)

• Flow: Moderate, enough to sway tentacles without tearing tissue

• Placement: Mid to lower rockwork with space for colonies to branch outward

Duncans are adaptable and can tolerate a variety of lighting and flow conditions, making them suitable for both mixed reefs and dedicated LPS setups.

Feeding Duncan Corals

Although they host zooxanthellae and receive energy from photosynthesis, Duncans respond extremely well to target feeding. Offering mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or other small meaty foods 2–3 times per week helps accelerate growth and enhances coloration.

Growth and Behavior

Duncans are relatively fast-growing compared to many other LPS corals. Their branching colonies expand as new heads develop, creating impressive displays over time. Unlike many stony corals, Duncans are peaceful and do not usually sting neighbors, though giving them room to grow prevents overcrowding.

Tankmates

Duncan corals are compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates. They coexist peacefully with other LPS, SPS, and soft corals. Avoid species known to nip at tentacles, such as certain angelfish or butterflyfish. Cleaner shrimp, clownfish, gobies, and tangs all make excellent companions.

Common Challenges

• Underfeeding: Slows growth and can limit polyp extension.

• High Flow: Can damage tentacles if blasted directly.

• Pest Irritation: Rare, but occasional nipping from inverts or fish may cause retraction.

Conclusion

Duncan corals are one of the most rewarding LPS corals for both new and experienced aquarists. Their graceful tentacles, branching structure, and adaptability make them an ideal choice for adding motion and color to any reef tank. With proper placement, stable water conditions, and regular feeding, Duncan corals thrive and grow into showpiece colonies.

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