Common name: Hicksonella Coral

General information

Hicksonella princeps is a species of soft coral known for its unique appearance and structure. Unlike many other corals, Hicksonella princeps does not possess a hard calcium carbonate skeleton, making it part of the soft coral category. This species is characterized by its tree-like structure with branches that end in lobed polyps. The coloration of Hicksonella princeps can vary, often displaying hues of brown, green, or yellow.

Care

Caring for Hicksonella princeps requires a moderate level of expertise. They thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water conditions. Moderate to strong water flow and lighting are essential for their health, as these conditions mimic their natural environment. It's important to provide a varied diet of planktonic foods to ensure proper nutrition.

Symbiosis

While Hicksonella princeps does not have notable symbiotic relationships like those seen in clownfish and anemones, its structure provides a habitat for various small marine organisms. These organisms can seek refuge among the branches and polyps of the coral, which can add to the biodiversity of a reef aquarium.

Habitat

Hicksonella princeps is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in reef environments. They are often located in areas with strong currents which aid in their feeding strategy, capturing plankton and other food particles from the water column.