Description

Tubinaria Coral (commonly called Scroll Coral, Turbinaria, or Cup Coral) is a genus of large polyp stony (LPS) corals known for their unique growth forms and relative hardiness, making them popular among reef aquarists.

🌊 Description of Tubinaria Coral

• Scientific Classification:

  • Genus: Tubinaria

  • Family: Dendrophylliidae

• Common Names:

  • Scroll Coral

  • Pagoda Coral

  • Cup Coral

• Appearance:
  Tubinaria corals typically form scroll-like, cup-shaped, or plate structures. The surface is covered with small, spaced-out polyps. Colors range from yellow-brown and green to tan and cream, sometimes with brighter highlights under actinic lighting.

• Growth Pattern:

  • Scroll-like (wavy plates)

  • Upright cups or funnels

  • Encrusting bases

• Polyp Extension:
  Moderate during the day; can extend more at night for feeding.

🧪 Care Requirements

🍤 Feeding

• Photosynthetic: Yes (contains symbiotic zooxanthellae)

• Supplemental Feeding (Optional but Beneficial):

  • Phytoplankton

  • Zooplankton

  • Coral foods like Reef-Roids or powdered blends

  • Target feeding once or twice a week can improve growth and coloration

⚠️ Tips and Notes

• Stability is key: Like most LPS corals, Tubinaria prefers stable water parameters.

• Avoid shading: Since they grow in a scrolling or plate form, they can shade other corals or themselves.

• Watch for tissue recession: Common with poor water quality or insufficient flow.

• Aggression: Not overly aggressive, but can sting nearby corals with sweeper tentacles—give some space.