C.D. Cyphastrea JF BLOOD RED 3cm

Illustrative photo, coral without frag plug. The price is not subject to discount.

Cyphastrea Coral: Species Description and Aquarium Care

Cyphastrea is a genus of stony corals belonging to the Merulinidae family. These are hard corals found in natural habitats on coral reefs worldwide, mainly in the Indo-Pacific region. Cyphastrea is a highly sought-after stony coral species due to its attractive appearance and relatively easy care in aquariums. Here is some information about this species and its aquarium care:

Species Description of Cyphastrea:

1. Appearance: Cyphastrea colonies have a flat or irregular plate-like form or low ridges. These colonies can have various colors, depending on the variety, ranging from green, brown, blue, red, to pink. They are characterized by small polyps, which are usually elongated and have convex discs.

2. Aquarium Requirements:

   • Lighting: Cyphastrea requires moderate to strong lighting. These corals utilize symbiotic zooxanthellae algae, which need access to light for photosynthesis.

   • Water Flow: Providing moderate water flow is essential to deliver nutrients and remove metabolic waste products.

   • Water Parameters: Stable water parameters are crucial, including water temperature (typically 24-28°C), pH (7.8-8.4), and salinity level (35 ppt).

3. Feeding: Cyphastrea is a nitrogenous coral, which means it derives most of its nutrients from zooxanthellae algae. However, you can also feed them with microscopic particles such as zooplankton or specialized coral food.

4. Reproduction and Propagation: Cyphastrea can be propagated in the aquarium through colony division or by using fragment propagation techniques. Coral fragments can be attached to special aquarium substrates or mother corals using adhesive or clip-on methods. Maintaining stable conditions in your aquarium is essential to avoid stress for the corals.

5. Stability: Cyphastrea is a relatively hardy coral species but still requires attention to water quality, lighting, and water flow. Monitoring water parameters and regular water tests are crucial for maintaining a healthy aquarium ecosystem.

Cultivating Cyphastrea in an aquarium can be a rewarding experience but requires careful attention to provide the right conditions for these corals. It is always advisable to acquire knowledge and experience before purchasing and attempting to care for this species. Additionally, ensure that the corals you acquire for your aquarium are not sourced from wild populations but are of captive origin to support the conservation of natural coral reefs.

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.