Pipe Organ Coral Care Guide – Care, Feeding & Lighting Tips

Introduction

Pipe Organ Coral (Tubipora musica), also known as Organ Pipe Coral, is one of the most fascinating soft corals due to its unique skeletal structure. Unlike most soft corals, it builds a rigid red calcium carbonate skeleton, giving it a stony coral-like appearance. Its vibrant polyps extend from tube-like structures, waving gently in the current, and make it a standout coral for reef tanks.

Scientific Name & Identification

Pipe Organ Coral belongs to the family Tubiporidae. Its colonies are easily identified by the red skeletal tubes from which delicate polyps extend. These polyps vary in color, including green, blue, and metallic tones. The contrast between the red skeleton and colorful polyps makes it one of the most unique soft corals in the hobby.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Pipe Organ Corals are found in shallow reef flats and lagoon areas of the Indo-Pacific. They encrust hard substrates, forming colonies that resemble clusters of organ pipes covered in swaying flowers.

Aquarium Care & Setup

To care for Pipe Organ Corals successfully, aquarists should provide:

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026

• Lighting: Moderate, avoiding extremes that can cause stress

• Flow: Moderate, allowing polyps to sway freely without damage

• Placement: Rockwork or sandbed with stability for their rigid skeleton

Feeding

Pipe Organ Corals are photosynthetic but benefit greatly from supplemental feeding. Adding phytoplankton, marine snow, or powdered coral foods can help promote growth and maintain vibrant polyp coloration.

Growth and Behavior

These corals grow by expanding their encrusting skeleton and producing additional tubes. Over time, they form colonies resembling fields of colorful flowers. While peaceful, they can be sensitive to poor water conditions, so stability is key.

Tankmates

Pipe Organ Corals are best kept with peaceful fish and invertebrates. They pair well with other soft corals, LPS, and SPS, provided aggressive species are kept at a distance. Avoid placing them near corals with long sweeper tentacles that could sting their delicate polyps.

Conclusion

Pipe Organ Corals are a rare and striking addition to reef aquariums. With their vibrant polyps, unique skeleton, and flowing movement, they add both structure and beauty to tanks. While requiring stable care and moderate lighting and flow, they reward aquarists with one of the most distinctive displays in the reef-keeping hobby.

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