Bird's nest coral
Seriatopora hystrix
Family : Pocilloporidae
The Bird's nest coral is a highly sought-after SPS coral in reef aquariums for its fast growth and vibrant color. It forms dense, bird's nest-like colonies.
Description
Seriatopora hystrix forms bushy, branching colonies with thin, pointed branches. The polyps are small and retractile, often visible during the day. Coloration ranges from pink to purple, sometimes green or cream. It exhibits strong sexual dimorphism in reproductive polyps. Branches can reach 30 cm in length in aquariums.
Habitat
Region :
This coral is found primarily on shallow coral reefs, often on reef slopes exposed to strong currents. It colonizes hard substrates and forms dense, branching colonies. It occurs between 1 and 30 meters depth, in clear, well-oxygenated waters.
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
This coral requires a mature reef tank with intense lighting (Metal Halide or powerful LEDs) and strong turbulent flow. Parameters must be stable: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, calcium >400 mg/L, magnesium >1300 mg/L, KH 8-12 dKH. It is sensitive to nitrate and phosphate fluctuations (NO3 <10 ppm, PO4 <0.05 ppm). Beware of stinging tentacles at night: space it from other corals. Propagation by fragging is easy.
Similar species
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