Description
Prickly Soft Coral (Dendronephthya sp.)
Overview:
The Prickly Soft Coral is one of the most striking and exotic non-photosynthetic corals, recognized for its tree-like structure covered in vibrant, prickly polyps. It can display brilliant shades of red, pink, orange, yellow, or purple, making it a true showpiece for advanced reef aquariums.
Origin:
Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, commonly inhabiting shaded reef slopes and caves with strong water flow.
Feeding:
This coral is non-photosynthetic (NPS) and cannot rely on light for nutrition. It requires regular, heavy feedings of phytoplankton, rotifers, marine snow, and other microplankton to survive. Strong water flow is essential to deliver food particles to its polyps.
Tank Mates:
Reef-safe. Best kept with peaceful fish and invertebrates that will not disturb its delicate structure. Should not be placed near stinging corals or aggressive species.
Aggression:
Non-aggressive, but very sensitive. Requires pristine water conditions and careful positioning in the aquarium.
Experience Level:
Expert only. Dendronephthya is one of the most challenging corals to keep in captivity due to its strict feeding and flow requirements. Best suited for dedicated aquarists with experience in maintaining NPS (non-photosynthetic) reef systems.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 72–78°F (22–25.5°C)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.023–1.025
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dKH: 8–12
