Common name: smooth flower coral

General information

Eusmilia fastigiata, commonly known as the Smooth Flower Coral, is a stony coral species that is appreciated in the reefkeeping hobby for its distinctive branching structure and smooth, flower-like polyps. This species is part of the family Merulinidae and is native to the Caribbean Sea and the western Atlantic Ocean. It is often found in shallow reef environments where it contributes to the reef's structural complexity.

Care

The Smooth Flower Coral is considered to be a moderately difficult species to keep in captivity due to its specific lighting and water flow requirements. It thrives under moderate to high lighting conditions and prefers a moderate water flow that mimics its natural reef habitat. This coral benefits from stable water parameters and the addition of calcium and alkalinity supplements to support its skeletal growth.

Symbiosis

While Eusmilia fastigiata does not have the same level of symbiotic relationships as some other corals, it may occasionally host small reef fish seeking shelter among its branches. Additionally, its structure provides a habitat for a variety of microfauna that contribute to the overall health of the reef ecosystem.

Habitat

Smooth Flower Coral is typically found at depths ranging from 1 to 20 meters, often in fore-reef and back-reef environments. It is a resilient species that can adapt to various light and flow conditions within its natural range, which extends from the Florida Keys to the northern coast of South America, including the Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Caribbean islands.