Common name: Disc coral

General information

Turbinaria frondens, commonly known as Cup Coral or Pagoda Coral, is a species of large polyp stony coral (LPS) that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts for its unique, leaf-like appearance and ease of care. This coral is characterized by its frond-like, cup-shaped colonies that can vary in color from yellow to green, often with brown or purple hues.

Care

Cup Coral is considered a hardy species that can thrive in a range of lighting conditions, from moderate to high intensity. It prefers moderate water flow to prevent sediment accumulation on its surface and to facilitate feeding. Turbinaria frondens is a photosynthetic coral, relying on its symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, for nutrition, but it also benefits from supplemental feedings of microplankton or finely minced seafood.

Symbiosis

While not known for hosting fish or invertebrates, Turbinaria corals can contribute to the overall health of the reef aquarium by providing shelter and microhabitats for small, beneficial organisms such as copepods and amphipods.

Habitat

Turbinaria frondens is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in shallow reef environments. It is often seen on reef slopes and in lagoons, where it can grow quite large under the right conditions. In the wild, these corals are usually found at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to about 20 meters.