Description

Stylophora Coral: Description & Care Guide

🐚 General Description

Stylophora (commonly known as Cat’s Paw Coral, Club Finger Coral, or simply Stylos) is a genus of small polyp stony (SPS) corals. It’s known for its compact, thick branches and vibrant coloration, which ranges from neon pinks and purples to greens and yellows.

• Scientific Classification:

  • Family: Pocilloporidae

  • Genus: Stylophora

• Origin: Indo-Pacific region — particularly the Red Sea, Great Barrier Reef, and Indian Ocean.

• Growth Form: Short, stout branches with blunt tips.

• Coloration: Bright pink, purple, green, blue, or brown; often fluoresces under actinic lighting.

🌊 Tank Requirements

🧪 Care Level

• Difficulty: Moderate

  • Easier than Acropora but still requires stable water parameters.

  • Good starter SPS coral for reefers transitioning from soft or LPS corals.

🍽️ Feeding

• Photosynthetic: Gets most nutrition from zooxanthellae algae.

• Optional Feeding:

  • Benefits from occasional microplankton, reef roids, or coral foods.

  • Target feeding not necessary but can promote growth.

🧼 Maintenance Tips

• Stable Parameters: Sudden changes in temperature, alkalinity, or salinity can cause tissue loss.

• Avoid Shadowing: Ensure enough light reaches all branches.

• Watch for Pests: Keep an eye out for red bugs or flatworms.

• Fragging: Easy to frag due to its branching structure — use bone cutters or coral saws.

⚠️ Common Issues

• Tissue Recession: Caused by unstable water conditions or low flow.

• Algae Overgrowth: May occur in areas with low flow/light.

• Bleaching: Due to sudden lighting changes or stress.

✅ Compatibility

• Tankmates: Generally peaceful coral, compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates.

• Aggression: Mild; not highly aggressive but can be stung by more aggressive corals like Euphyllia.