Birds Nest Hard Coral Seriatopora Sp

Description

Bird’s Nest Hard Coral (Seriatopora sp.)

(Also known as Bird’s Nest Coral or Needle Coral)

Overview

The Bird’s Nest Coral (Seriatopora sp.) is a popular small-polyp stony (SPS) coral admired for its delicate, twig-like branches that intertwine to form dense, nest-shaped colonies. Polyps are fine and tightly spaced, creating a fuzzy appearance when extended. Colouration varies from pink, green, yellow, and purple to bright neon shades, depending on the species, lighting, and water conditions. Fast-growing and visually striking, Seriatopora adds height, structure, and vibrant movement to SPS or mixed reef systems.

Origin

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef, Fiji, Tonga, and Indonesia. Typically found on upper reef slopes and lagoon areas, where it thrives under intense light and strong, turbulent currents.

Feeding

The Bird’s Nest Coral is photosynthetic, hosting zooxanthellae that supply the majority of its energy through photosynthesis. Supplemental feeding enhances growth and colour:

• Marine microplankton or phytoplankton

• Fine powdered coral foods (e.g., Reef-Roids)

• Amino acid or trace element supplements

Feed 1–2 times per week to support active growth, especially in ultra-clean systems.

Lighting

High lighting required. This SPS coral thrives under bright, full-spectrum illumination from LED, T5, or metal halide lighting.

• PAR range: 250‚Äì400 ¬µmol/m¬≤/s

• Gradually acclimate to higher light intensity to prevent bleaching.

• Intense lighting enhances pastel and neon pigmentation.

Water Flow

Strong, turbulent flow. Random and multidirectional currents are essential to keep the branches clean of detritus, deliver nutrients, and maintain oxygen exchange. Avoid direct, laminar jets that can damage fragile branches.

Placement

• Position in the upper third of the tank, where light and flow are strongest.

• Mount securely on stable rockwork or a coral plug ‚Äî the branches are brittle and can break easily if disturbed.

• Allow space around the colony for expansion and to prevent shading neighbouring corals.

Tank Mates

Peaceful and reef safe. Compatible with:

• Reef-safe fish such as gobies, tangs, clownfish, and wrasses

• Invertebrates (shrimp, hermits, snails, urchins)

• Other SPS corals with adequate spacing

Avoid:

• Corals with long, stinging sweeper tentacles (e.g., Galaxea, Euphyllia)

• Large angelfish or butterflyfish that may nip at polyps

Aggression

Peaceful. Seriatopora does not have long sweeper tentacles but is sensitive to contact from aggressive corals. Leave several centimetres of spacing to avoid tissue loss from chemical or physical irritation.

Experience Level

Intermediate to advanced. While hardy once established, the Bird’s Nest Coral requires stable water chemistry, strong light, and consistent flow to maintain health and vibrant colouration. Suitable for reef keepers comfortable managing SPS water parameters.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24‚Äì27¬∞C (75‚Äì81¬∞F)

• pH: 8.1‚Äì8.4

• Salinity: 1.025‚Äì1.026 SG

• Hardness (dKH): 8‚Äì12

• Calcium: 400‚Äì450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250‚Äì1350 ppm

• Phosphate: <0.03 ppm

• Nitrate: <10 ppm

• Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons (280L) for stability and adequate flow zones

Regular testing and dosing of calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium are essential for skeletal growth and resilience.

Reef Compatibility

Fully reef safe. A showpiece coral that adds dimension and colour to SPS and mixed reefs. Its intricate, branching structure provides natural shelter for small reef fish and invertebrates, creating a realistic reef environment.