Common name: Shorttailed snake moray

Scientific name: Scuticaria okinawae (Jordan & Snyder, 1901)

General information

The Okinawa Stag Beetle Coral, Scuticaria okinawae, is a captivating species of small polyp stony (SPS) coral known for its unique growth form resembling the antlers of a stag beetle. This coral is prized among aquarists for its intricate structure and potential for vibrant coloration, which can range from deep purples to bright greens depending on the lighting and water conditions.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
Temperature
23 to 28 °C (73 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy
Diet
Carnivore
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Eels
    Anguilliformes
  5. Family
    Moray Eels
    Muraenidae
  6. Genus
    Wartskin Angler
    Scuticaria
  7. Species
    Shorttailed snake moray
    Scuticaria okinawae (Jordan & Snyder, 1901)
  8. Synonyms
    Gymnomuraena brevicauda Regan, 1903
    Scuticaria unicolor Seale, 1917
    Uropterygius okinawae Jordan & Snyder, 1901
    Uropterygius sealei Whitley, 1932

Care

Scuticaria okinawae requires stable water conditions and intense lighting to thrive in a reef aquarium. It prefers strong, intermittent water flow that mimics the surge zones of its natural habitat. Calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels should be maintained within optimal ranges to support its skeletal growth. Due to its delicate structure, care should be taken to place it in an area of the tank where it is not susceptible to damage from fish or other corals.

Habitat

This species is found in the subtropical waters around the Ryukyu Islands, including Okinawa, where it inhabits the upper reef slopes and crest areas. It is often found in environments with strong water movement, which aids in the delivery of nutrients and removal of waste products.