Common name: Waving Hand Coral

General Information

The Waving Hand Coral, scientifically known as Anthelia glauca, is a soft coral species admired for its elegant, waving polyps that sway with the water current. This coral is a popular choice among reef aquarists due to its attractive appearance and ease of care. Unlike many other coral species, Anthelia glauca does not possess a hard skeleton, which makes it more flexible and less prone to damage from water movement.

This coral is often used to create a dynamic and lively display in aquariums, with its polyps resembling soft, flowing grass or waving hands, hence the name. Anthelia glauca is sometimes confused with similar species like Xenia, but it can be distinguished by its longer polyps and slightly different coloration.

Care

Anthelia glauca is well-suited for beginner aquarists due to its hardy nature and adaptability to various tank conditions. It thrives in well-established aquariums with stable water parameters. Regular water changes and maintaining good water quality are essential to its health.

This coral prefers moderate to high water flow, which helps keep its polyps clean and free from detritus. It can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, but moderate lighting is ideal to maintain its vibrant color and growth.

Diet and Feeding

Anthelia glauca is photosynthetic, relying on the symbiotic zooxanthellae within its tissues to provide most of its nutritional needs through photosynthesis. While supplemental feeding is not necessary, occasional feeding with coral foods can promote faster growth and more vibrant coloration.

Behavior and Compatibility

Waving Hand Coral is generally peaceful and can be housed with a wide variety of other coral species. However, it is known to grow rapidly and can overtake other corals if not regularly pruned. Its rapid growth can be both a blessing and a curse, providing quick coverage for bare spots in the aquarium but potentially overshadowing slower-growing species.

Propagation

Propagation of Anthelia glauca is relatively straightforward and can be accomplished through cutting and attaching fragments to new substrates. This coral's rapid growth rate makes it an excellent candidate for propagation projects, allowing aquarists to share or trade frags with fellow hobbyists.

Health and Common Issues

Anthelia glauca is a robust species but can be susceptible to pests like nudibranchs and flatworms. Regular inspection and maintaining good water quality can help prevent infestations. It is important to monitor for signs of stress, such as closed polyps or discoloration, which can indicate water quality issues or inadequate lighting.

Habitat

In the wild, Anthelia glauca is found in shallow reef environments across the Indo-Pacific region. It typically inhabits areas with strong water movement, which helps keep its polyps clean and free from sediment. This coral thrives in warm, tropical waters with stable salinity and temperature conditions.