Common name: Kenya Tree Coral

General information

The Kenya Tree Coral, Capnella imbricata, is a popular soft coral species among reef aquarium hobbyists due to its ease of care and rapid growth rate. This coral is known for its tree-like appearance, with a trunk-like base and branches that end in small, feathery polyps. The Kenya Tree Coral can exhibit a range of colors, including shades of brown, pink, and cream.

Care

Capnella imbricata is a hardy species that adapts well to a variety of tank conditions. It prefers moderate lighting and water flow, which helps to keep its polyps free of debris and promotes optimal health. This coral is not demanding in terms of feeding, as it receives a significant portion of its nutrition from the photosynthetic symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, living within its tissues. However, supplemental feeding with planktonic foods can promote more vigorous growth and health.

Symbiosis

While Capnella imbricata does not have the same level of symbiotic relationships as clownfish and anemones, it can provide a habitat for small, commensal crustaceans and fish that seek refuge among its branches. These relationships are generally not as specific or obligatory as those found in other coral species.

Habitat

In the wild, the Kenya Tree Coral is typically found in shallow, reef environments where it can attach to a variety of substrates. It is known to be a hardy species capable of withstanding various conditions, which contributes to its popularity in the aquarium trade. It is often found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the central and western Pacific Ocean.