Common name: Waving Hand Coral

General information

Thesea nutans, commonly known as Waving Hand Coral, Pulse Coral, or Clove Polyp, is a species of soft coral that is popular among reef aquarium hobbyists for its pulsating polyps and vibrant colors. This coral is part of the Alcyoniidae family and is known for its ease of care and ability to add dynamic movement to the reef aquarium.

Care

Waving Hand Coral is considered a good choice for beginners due to its hardiness. It thrives in moderate lighting conditions and benefits from gentle to moderate water flow, which helps to mimic its natural environment and keep the polyps free of debris. It is important to provide ample space between this coral and others in the aquarium, as it can be aggressive and may overgrow neighboring corals.

Symbiosis

While Thesea nutans does not have the same type of symbiotic relationships as clownfish with anemones, it does host a variety of microfauna that can benefit from the shelter provided by its polyps. These microorganisms, in turn, contribute to the overall health of the reef ecosystem within the aquarium.

Habitat

Thesea nutans is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in shallow waters where it forms colonies on reef slopes and in lagoons. It is adaptable to a range of conditions within its natural habitat, which contributes to its resilience in the home aquarium.