Common name: Chestnut grouper

Scientific name: Gracila albomarginata (Fowler & Bean, 1930)

General information

The White Margin Staghorn Coral, Gracila albomarginata, is a species of small polyp stony (SPS) coral known for its slender branches and distinctive white tips. This coral is appreciated for its intricate structure and the dynamic habitat it provides within the reef aquarium.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
30 liter (7.9 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy
Diet
Omnivore
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Groupers
    Serranidae
  6. Genus
    Gracilaria
    Gracila
  7. Species
    Chestnut grouper
    Gracila albomarginata (Fowler & Bean, 1930)
  8. Synonyms
    Aethaloperca albomarginata (Fowler & Bean, 1930)
    Cephalopholis albomarginatus Fowler & Bean, 1930
    Epinephelus albomarginatus (Fowler & Bean, 1930)
    Gracilia albomarginata (Fowler & Bean, 1930)

Care

Gracila albomarginata requires stable water conditions with strong lighting and moderate to high water flow to thrive. It is important to maintain consistent levels of calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium to support its skeletal growth. This coral can be sensitive to changes in water quality, so regular testing and gradual adjustments are recommended.

Symbiosis

While not known for hosting fish or invertebrates, SPS corals like Gracila albomarginata play a crucial role in the reef ecosystem. They provide a complex three-dimensional structure that offers shelter and hunting grounds for a variety of reef inhabitants.

Habitat

Gracila albomarginata is found in the shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region, typically in areas with strong wave action. It is often seen in reef slopes and the upper edges of reefs where it receives ample sunlight.