Common name: great star coral

General information

The Great Star Coral, Montastraea cavernosa, is a species of large polyp stony coral (LPS) that is popular among reef aquarium hobbyists for its hardiness and impressive appearance. This coral is characterized by its large, dome-shaped colonies and star-shaped corallites, which can vary in color from brown to green, with occasional fluorescent shades.

In the wild, M. cavernosa is an important reef-building species, contributing to the structure and complexity of coral reefs. It is also known for its resilience to environmental changes, which makes it a suitable candidate for aquarists looking to add a robust LPS coral to their tanks.

Care

Great Star Coral is relatively easy to care for in a reef aquarium setting. It prefers moderate to high lighting conditions and moderate water flow. While it can tolerate a range of water conditions, maintaining stable parameters is crucial for its health and growth. Feeding is not strictly necessary as it harbors zooxanthellae, symbiotic algae that provide it with nutrients through photosynthesis. However, occasional feeding with fine particulate foods can promote faster growth and more vibrant colors.

Symbiosis

M. cavernosa engages in a mutualistic symbiosis with zooxanthellae, which live within its tissues. These algae perform photosynthesis, providing the coral with essential nutrients, while the coral provides the algae with a protected environment and access to sunlight.

Habitat

The Great Star Coral is found in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and the western Atlantic Ocean. It typically inhabits reef slopes and walls, where it can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to over 30 meters deep. Its ability to thrive in various light conditions allows it to occupy a wide range of reef habitats.