Pink Branching Cyphastrea
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The Pink Branching Cyphastrea displays purple branches with soft pink polyps, offering a delicate contrast not often seen in this genus. Unlike the typical encrusting varieties, this coral grows in a branching formation, making it a unique showpiece. It prefers low to moderate light and low flow and is easy to care for, suitable for hobbyists of all experience levels. A great choice for adding structure and soft pastel color to shaded reef zones.
|
Scientific Name |
Cyphastrea |
|
Waterflow |
Medium |
|
Lighting |
Low |
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Temperament |
Non-agressive |
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Care Level |
EASY |
|
Placement |
Middle to Bottom |
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Purchase Size |
~3/4" Frag |
Cyphastrea corals are hardy, encrusting LPS corals prized for their star-like polyps and ability to thrive in lower light areas of the reef tank. Their adaptability and unique growth pattern make them a popular choice for both beginner and advanced reef keepers. With steady conditions and occasional feeding, Cyphastrea will steadily cover rockwork with vibrant color.
Description
Common Names: Cyphastrea Coral, Meteor Coral, Star Coral
Scientific Name: Cyphastrea spp.
Family: Merulinidae
Temperament: Peaceful
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Native Habitat & Distribution
Widespread across the Indo-Pacific, often encrusting shaded reef slopes, rubble, and crevices where light is less intense.
Aquarium Care & Setup
Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.024–1.026
Lighting: Low to moderate (50–150 PAR), suited for shaded or lower areas of the tank
Flow: Moderate to strong, helps prevent detritus buildup
Placement: Shaded areas, vertical rock faces, or tank bottoms
Care Tips & Feeding
• Feeding: Benefits from fine particulate coral foods such as powdered blends, rotifers, or baby brine shrimp
• Growth Pattern: Slow-growing encruster that spreads across rock, forming a colorful mat with star-like polyps
• Tankmates: Peaceful coral that coexists well with most species, but should be given space from fast growers
• Behavior: Polyps extend during the day and glow vividly under actinic lighting, creating a striking display
For more information, check out our Cyphastrea Care Guide.
Are Cyphastrea corals easy to keep?
Yes, Cyphastrea are hardy and beginner-friendly LPS corals. They tolerate a wide range of lighting and flow conditions.
Do Cyphastrea corals need to be fed?
They are primarily photosynthetic but benefit from occasional target feeding of small meaty foods or coral foods 1–2 times per week.
What lighting do Cyphastrea corals need?
Low to moderate lighting (30–100 PAR) is ideal. They can adapt to various light levels but often show the best colors under lower light.
Where should I place Cyphastrea corals in my tank?
They do well on rockwork, encrusting surfaces, or shaded areas with low to moderate flow.
Will Cyphastrea corals sting other corals?
No, they are peaceful and do not have strong stinging tentacles, making them safe near other corals.
How fast do Cyphastrea corals grow?
They grow at a moderate pace, spreading as an encrusting mat over rockwork and other surfaces.