Catalaphyllia jardinei GREEN AUSTRALIA (22.09.2024) XXL 20cm+

Catalaphyllia jardinei, also known as Hammer Coral or Anchor Coral, is a species of soft coral belonging to the Euphylliidae family. It is a beautiful and popular coral species in marine aquariums due to its attractive design and unique shapes.

Here are some details regarding the cultivation of Catalaphyllia jardinei:

1. Appearance: Hammer Coral has a distinctive branching or single main stem that resembles a hammer or anchor. It can come in various colors, such as green, brown, pink, purple, or even blue. It features large polyps that surround the coral's stalk.

2. Lighting: Catalaphyllia jardinei requires moderate to strong lighting. It is advisable to place it in an aquarium with appropriate LED or T5 lamps. Proper lighting will support its growth and maintain the coral's vibrant colors.

3. Water Flow: Hammer Coral requires moderate water flow. Proper water flow helps in removing impurities and delivering nutrients to the coral.

4. Water Parameters: Hammer Coral needs stable water parameters. The temperature should be between 24°C and 27°C, and the pH should be maintained within the range of 8.0-8.4. Regular testing and control of ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels are also important.

5. Feeding: Catalaphyllia jardinei is a carnivorous coral. It can be fed with small pieces of meat, such as marine shrimp, fish chunks, or coral-specific food available at pet stores. It's recommended to feed it several times a week.

6. Reproduction: Reproducing this coral species is possible but can be challenging. Vegetative propagation involves detaching lateral branches and affixing them to the substrate. For more successful breeding, it's advisable to acquire specimens that have already been propagated in captivity.

7. Aggression: Hammer Coral has its own territory and can extend its polyps toward other corals. Therefore, it's essential to maintain proper spacing between different coral species in the aquarium.

It's worth remembering that coral care is demanding and requires regular maintenance and monitoring of water parameters. If you're a beginner aquarist, consider starting with soft corals before moving on to more demanding species, such as hard corals.

Benefits of Buying Corals from Aquarium Cultivation:

Aquarium coral cultivation has become increasingly popular in the world of aquarium enthusiasts for several important reasons. Here are some advantages of purchasing corals from aquarium cultivation:

1. Protection of Natural Coral Reefs:

   • One of the primary benefits is that corals cultivated in aquariums are not harvested from wild coral reefs. This means that you are not contributing to the destruction of natural marine ecosystems.

2. Sustainable Aquaculture:

   • By buying corals from cultivation, you support sustainable aquaculture, which is more environmentally friendly than harvesting corals from wild reefs. This contributes to the preservation of marine biodiversity.

3. Greater Availability and Variety:

   • Aquarium cultivators often offer a wider range of coral species and varieties, allowing aquarium enthusiasts to create more diverse and interesting ecosystems in their tanks.

4. Healthier and Less Prone to Disease:

   • Corals from cultivation are typically healthier and less susceptible to diseases compared to those harvested from wild reefs. Aquarium cultivators often conduct regular testing and care for their corals, preventing diseases.

5. Proper Cultivation Conditions:

   • Coral cultivators control and maintain stable water conditions, ensuring optimal lighting, water flow, and nutrient levels. This promotes healthy growth and vibrant colors in corals.

6. Support for Enthusiasts:

   • Aquarium cultivators often offer support and advice, which can be particularly helpful for novice aquarists. You can gain valuable insights into coral care and cultivation from experienced cultivators.

7. Safe and Legal Alternative:

   • When you purchase corals from aquarium cultivation, you avoid potentially illegal trade in wild corals, which can lead to the degradation of natural coral reefs.

8. Supporting Scientific Innovation:

   • Aquarium cultivators often engage in research related to coral conservation and reef restoration. By buying from them, you also support these innovative scientific efforts.

Buying corals from aquarium cultivation is a sustainable and ethical way to own beautiful corals in your aquarium. It is also a means of engaging in the protection of marine nature and preserving wild coral reefs for future generations.