(F4) Rainbow Pectinia - WYSIWYG
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All WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) corals will be the exact specimen in the photo. Please note that corals may grow and shift in coloration slightly in the time between the photo being taken and delivery. We will contact you before shipping in the rare instance that the coral no longer meets the standards set by the photo.
Pectinia corals are a striking LPS coral known for their unique leaf-like ridges and flowing, skeletal plates. They are moderately challenging to care for, requiring stable reef conditions, moderate lighting, and medium flow to thrive. Their dramatic appearance makes them a centerpiece coral in many reef tanks.
Description:
Common Names: Pectinia Coral
Scientific Name: Pectinia paeonia
Family: Merulinidae
Temperament: Aggressive (long sweeper tentacles at night can sting nearby corals)
Difficulty: Moderate
Native Habitat & Distribution:
Pectinia corals are found throughout the Indo-Pacific, typically on reef slopes and ledges where moderate flow helps deliver nutrients and prevent sediment buildup.
Aquarium Care & Setup:
Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.024–1.026
Lighting: Moderate, ideally 75–150 PAR—avoid excessive light as it may cause bleaching
Flow: Moderate to strong indirect flow to keep debris from settling while allowing full polyp extension
Placement: Mid to lower regions of the tank with plenty of space to prevent aggression toward neighbors
Care Tips & Feeding:
• Feeding: Photosynthetic but benefits from supplemental feeding with small meaty foods such as mysis, brine shrimp, and coral pellets 2–3 times per week
• Growth Pattern: Plating, leafy structures with intricate ridges and folds
• Tankmates: Compatible with peaceful fish and inverts; keep away from other corals due to long sweeper tentacles
• Behavior: Extends sweeper tentacles at night, so provide ample clearance to prevent coral warfare
For more information, check out our Pectinia Care Guide.
Are Pectinia corals beginner-friendly?
They are considered moderately difficult and best for aquarists with some reef-keeping experience. Stable parameters are essential.
How aggressive are Pectinia corals?
Very aggressive—pectinia extend long sweeper tentacles at night that can sting and damage nearby corals. Provide generous spacing.
What lighting does Pectinia need?
Moderate lighting (75–150 PAR) is ideal. Too much light can cause bleaching, while too little may reduce growth and coloration.
Do Pectinia corals need feeding?
Yes, while photosynthetic, they benefit from supplemental feeding with mysis, brine shrimp, or coral foods several times per week.
Where should I place Pectinia in my tank?
Mid to lower regions of the tank with moderate indirect flow and enough space to accommodate sweeper tentacles.