Pocillopora verrucosa YELLOW FLUO (05.05.2024) 8cm

Pocillopora is a genus of hard corals belonging to the family Pocilloporidae, which are widely distributed in coral reefs around the world. Species from this genus are predominantly found in warm tropical and subtropical waters of the oceans. Pocillopora is one of the most diverse genera of hard corals, encompassing many different species.

Species Description:

• Appearance: Pocillopora corals have a distinctive colony structure composed of small branches or cones. These colonies are typically small, although they can grow larger under suitable conditions. The colors of Pocillopora corals can be diverse, including shades of white, pink, purple, green, brown, and others.

• Polyp Pattern: Pocillopora polyps are small, about 1-2 mm in width, and occur on the surface of branches. They have a characteristic pattern with three openings at the top of each polyp.

• Growth: Pocillopora corals grow relatively quickly under the right conditions. They can develop as either encrusting (round) or branching colonies, depending on the species and environmental conditions.

Cultivation of Pocillopora in Marine Aquariums:

• Conditions: Cultivating Pocillopora in an aquarium requires appropriate conditions, including stable water parameters, suitable lighting, and water flow. The water temperature should be maintained between 24-28°C, and salinity should be in the range of 1.023-1.025.

• Lighting: Pocillopora corals require moderate to high-intensity lighting, which means they need a strong light source such as LEDs or T5 fixtures.

• Water Flow: Providing adequate water flow in the aquarium is crucial. Pocillopora corals require moderate to strong water flow to supply them with food and maintain colony health.

• Feeding: Pocillopora is a small-polyp stony coral, meaning they feed on tiny planktonic particles and other microorganisms in the water. It's advisable to provide them with nutrition in the form of micro and macro elements available in commercial supplements.

Cultivating Pocillopora corals in aquariums can be challenging, but with proper care and attention to water parameters, success in maintaining these beautiful corals can be achieved. However, it's essential to note that due to their requirements, coral husbandry is an advanced hobby and requires experience in maintaining a marine aquarium.

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.