Reeflings

Common name: Bush coral

Scientific name: Seriatopora hystrix Dana, 1846
organ-pipe coralPink Birdsnest Coral (Seriatopora hystrix)
Bush coral or thin birdsnest coral, spiny row coral, needle coral (Seriatopora hystrix) undersea, Red Sea, Egypt, Sharm El Sheikh, Nabq Bay
Branches of colonial stony coral Seriatopora hystrix commonly known as thin birds nest coral
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General information

The Birdsnest Coral, Seriatopora hystrix, is a small polyp stony (SPS) coral known for its delicate, needle-like branches and vibrant colors, which can range from pink to green. It is a popular choice among reef aquarium enthusiasts due to its rapid growth rate and the dynamic structure it adds to the reef aquascape.

Details

Lighting
150 to 350 PAR
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
Temperature
23 to 26 °C (73 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 7.8 to 8.4
Care level
Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality.
Flow
Moderate Prefers turbulent flow.
Aggression
Peaceful

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Cnidarians
    Cnidaria
  3. Class
    Anthozoans
    Anthozoa
  4. Order
    Stony Corals
    Scleractinia
  5. Family
    Pocilloporidae
    Pocilloporidae
  6. Genus
    Birdsnest Coral
    Seriatopora
  7. Species
    Bush coral
    Seriatopora hystrix Dana, 1846
  8. Synonyms
    Seriatopora angulata Klunzinger, 1879

Care

Seriatopora hystrix requires moderate to high lighting and strong water flow to thrive in captivity. It is important to maintain stable water parameters, especially calcium and alkalinity levels, to support its skeletal growth. Birdsnest Coral can be sensitive to changes in water quality, so regular testing and maintenance are crucial.

Symbiosis

While Seriatopora hystrix does not have any specific symbiotic relationships that are as well-known as those of clownfish and anemones, it does host a variety of small marine organisms. These include microfauna such as copepods and amphipods, which can find refuge among its branches.

Habitat

In the wild, Seriatopora hystrix is commonly found in shallow reef environments, often in areas with strong water currents. It is widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea to the central Pacific Ocean.