(E2) WA Waluigi Goni - WYSIWYG

Goniopora and Alveopora corals are soft-tissue LPS corals prized for their long, flowing polyps and vibrant colors. These corals create a dynamic, waving display in reef aquariums, adding movement and texture. With moderate lighting, gentle water flow, and occasional feeding, both genera thrive and provide an eye-catching focal point.

Description

Common Names: Goniopora Coral, Flowerpot Coral, Alveopora Coral

Scientific Name: Goniopora spp. / Alveopora spp.

Family: Poritidae (Goniopora), Acroporidae (Alveopora)

Temperament: Peaceful, though may irritate neighboring coral

Difficulty: Moderate to Advanced

Note on Differentiation

While both genera feature long, soft polyps, there are key differences:

• Goniopora: Polyps have a thick, fleshy base and generally 24 tentacles. Colonies form mounding or encrusting shapes.
  
• Alveopora: Polyps are smaller, more delicate, with 12 tentacles, and colonies are often flatter or plate-like.
  

Although they appear similar, Alveopora is not closely related to Goniopora, as it belongs to the Acroporidae family, while Goniopora is in the Poritidae family.

Native Habitat & Distribution

Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, often near estuaries that dump manganese rich silt in the area.

Aquarium Care & Setup

Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

pH: 8.1–8.4

Salinity: 1.024–1.026

Lighting: Moderate (50–150 PAR), avoiding high-intensity light to prevent bleaching

Flow: Gentle to moderate; strong flow can damage delicate polyps

Placement: Rockwork or sandbed with room for polyp extension

Care Tips & Feeding

• Feeding: Target feed 1–3 times per week with finely chopped mysis shrimp, rotifers, or coral-specific foods

• Growth Pattern: Slow-growing, forming mounds, encrusting surfaces, or flat plates depending on species

• Tankmates: Peaceful reef fish and invertebrates; avoid aggressive corals that may overshadow polyps

• Supplements: Manganese has been shown to be highly beneficial in keeping goniopora healthy

• Behavior: Polyps expand day and night, waving gracefully in the current

For more information, check out our Blastomussa Care Guide.

Are Goniopora and Alveopora corals easy to keep?

Both are considered moderate to advanced; they require stable water conditions and careful placement. Manganese supplementation is commonly required, as they're intolerant of depleted levels.

Do they need to be fed?

No, however target feeding 1–3 times per week promotes polyp extension, coloration, and healthy growth.

What lighting do Goniopora and Alveopora corals need?

Moderate lighting (50–150 PAR) is ideal. Avoid intense light to prevent bleaching, especially for Alveopora.

Where should I place them in my tank?

On rockwork or sandbed with gentle to moderate flow, leaving room for polyps to extend.

Will they sting other corals?

Though they generally won't harm neighboring corals, they may irritate them enough to keep them from opening.

How fast do they grow?

Growth is slow to moderate; colonies gradually expand over time with proper care.