Common name: Smooth Cauliflower Coral
General information
The Smooth Cauliflower Coral, Stelligera stuposa, is a species of hard coral that is appreciated for its unique appearance and contribution to reef biodiversity. This coral is characterized by its smooth, dome-shaped colonies that resemble the vegetable cauliflower, hence its common name. The coral polyps extend during the night, giving the colony a fuzzy appearance.
Details
- Lighting
- 50 to 150 PAR
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Requires stable conditions.
- Flow
- Moderate Mimics natural habitat.
- Aggression
- Peaceful
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumSpongesPorifera
- ClassDemospongesDemospongiae
- OrderAxinellid SpongesAxinellida
- FamilyStellar DamselsStelligeridae
- GenusStaghorn CoralStelligera
- SpeciesSmooth Cauliflower CoralStelligera stuposa (Ellis & Solander, 1786)
- SynonymsDictyocylindrus stuposus (Ellis & Solander, 1786)Raspailia stelligera Schmidt, 1862Raspailia stuposa (Ellis & Solander, 1786)Spongia stuposa Ellis & Solander, 1786Stelligera stelligera (Schmidt, 1862)Vibulinus stuposus (Ellis & Solander, 1786)
Care
Stelligera stuposa requires moderate to high lighting conditions and moderate water flow within the aquarium to thrive. It is important to maintain stable water parameters, as fluctuations can stress the coral and lead to bleaching or disease. This species benefits from the addition of calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium supplements to support skeletal growth.
Symbiosis
While Stelligera stuposa does not have any well-known symbiotic relationships like those seen in clownfish and anemones, it does contribute to the overall health of the reef ecosystem by providing habitat and shelter for a variety of marine life.
Habitat
This coral species is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in shallow reef environments. It prefers areas with strong light and water movement, which are essential for its growth and development.