Yellow Branch Hard Coral Porites Sp

Description

Yellow Branch Hard Coral (Porites sp.)

(Also known as Yellow Finger Coral, Branching Porites, or Golden Porites)

Overview

The Yellow Branch Coral (Porites sp.) is a resilient and long-lived small-polyp stony (SPS) coral, admired for its slender, branching structure and vivid yellow to golden coloration. Colonies form tight, finger-like projections that can grow into intricate clusters, adding height and texture to reef aquariums. Its fine, smooth surface and small polyps give it a velvety appearance, and under actinic or blue lighting, the coral often displays a bright fluorescent sheen. Known for its durability and slow, steady growth, Porites is an excellent choice for experienced reef keepers seeking a colourful, natural-looking SPS coral.

Origin

Native to the Coral Sea, Great Barrier Reef, Fiji, Tonga, and widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Found in shallow reef flats and upper reef slopes, where it is exposed to intense sunlight and strong, turbulent water movement.

Feeding

The Yellow Branch Coral is photosynthetic, hosting zooxanthellae that supply the majority of its nutritional needs through photosynthesis. While direct feeding is not essential, occasional supplementation can enhance polyp health and growth. Offer weekly feedings of:

• Marine snow or fine coral plankton blends

• Phytoplankton and microplankton

• Amino acid and trace element supplements

Maintaining consistent nutrient balance (low but not stripped) supports vibrant coloration.

Lighting

High lighting. Porites thrives under strong, full-spectrum illumination provided by LED, T5, or metal halide systems.

• PAR range: 200‚Äì400 ¬µmol/m¬≤/s

• Gradually acclimate to high light to avoid bleaching.

• Blue-spectrum lighting highlights its golden and fluorescent tones.

Water Flow

Strong, turbulent flow. Consistent, multidirectional water movement prevents detritus buildup, enhances gas exchange, and delivers nutrients evenly. Avoid stagnant zones around the coral’s branches.

Placement

• Position in the upper third of the aquarium, ideally on rockwork with good flow exposure.

• Provide space for upward and outward branching growth.

• Avoid placement in shaded areas where light or flow is restricted.

Tank Mates

Reef safe. Compatible with:

• All peaceful reef-safe fish (tangs, wrasses, gobies, blennies, clownfish, etc.)

• Peaceful invertebrates (shrimp, snails, hermits, etc.)

• Other SPS and non-aggressive LPS corals

Avoid:

• Aggressive corals (e.g., Hydnophora, Galaxea, Euphyllia) placed nearby

• Butterflyfish and angelfish species that may nip polyps

Aggression

Peaceful. Porites does not extend long sweeper tentacles and will not harm nearby corals, but it can be outcompeted by faster-growing or aggressive species if placed too close.

Experience Level

Intermediate to advanced. Porites requires strong lighting, excellent flow, and very stable water parameters. While hardy once established, it can be sensitive to rapid changes in water chemistry or nutrient swings.

Water Parameters

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

• pH: 8.1‚Äì8.4

• Salinity: 1.024‚Äì1.026 SG

• Hardness (dKH): 8‚Äì12

• Calcium: 400‚Äì450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250‚Äì1350 ppm

• Nitrate: <5 ppm

• Phosphate: <0.03 ppm

• Tank Size: Minimum 100 gallons (380L) for stability and growth room

Stable alkalinity and calcium levels are essential for skeletal strength and colour retention.

Reef Compatibility

Fully reef safe. The Yellow Branch Coral is a durable, attractive SPS species that adds height, structure, and bright contrast to reef aquariums. Its compact growth form and rich golden hues make it a favourite among aquarists seeking a natural reef aesthetic. With proper light, flow, and stable conditions, Porites can thrive for many years as a long-term feature coral.