Cyphastrea Coral - Hulk

Cyphastrea Corals are a stunning genus of stony corals that are highly valued for their unique, encrusting growth form and vibrant colors. These corals are often found covering rock surfaces, forming a solid, compact structure that gives them an impressive, tile-like appearance. Cyphastrea corals are popular in reef aquariums due to their hardiness, ease of care, and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. They come in a range of colors, from greens and blues to purples, oranges, and even red hues, often with intricate patterns that make them an eye-catching addition to any tank.

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Cyphastrea species typically grow in shallow, tropical waters, where they receive moderate light and experience gentle to moderate water flow. These corals are well-suited for reef aquariums because they are relatively easy to care for compared to other, more delicate species, while still offering an attractive and unique look. They are not fast-growing, but with proper care, they can form beautiful encrusting colonies over time.

🌊 Cyphastrea Coral Water Parameters

Cyphastrea corals thrive in stable water conditions and require the following parameters to stay healthy:

• Temperature: 75°F – 80°F (24°C – 27°C)
• Salinity (Specific Gravity): 1.023 – 1.025
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH
• Calcium: 400 – 450 ppm
• Magnesium: 1250 – 1350 ppm
• Phosphate: < 0.03 ppm
• Nitrate: 2 – 10 ppm (lower levels are preferable)
• Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm

💡 Lighting Requirements

Cyphastrea corals require moderate to high lighting to thrive. They depend on photosynthesis for energy, and strong, direct lighting is beneficial for their coloration and growth. However, they are relatively adaptable and can tolerate lower light conditions, although they may not exhibit the same vibrant colors under reduced lighting.

Ideal Lighting Conditions:

• PAR: 150–300 PAR
  • Low light (<150 PAR): Can result in slower growth and less vibrant coloration.
  • Moderate to high light (150–300 PAR): Encourages healthy growth and vibrant coloration.
• Spectrum: Full-spectrum lighting with an emphasis on blue (14,000K – 20,000K) for optimal color enhancement.
• Photoperiod: 8–10 hours per day, with gradual ramp-up and ramp-down periods.

Lighting Recommendations:

• LED lights: Adjustable LEDs that provide full-spectrum lighting are ideal for shallow tanks.
• T5 Fluorescent lights: Suitable for deeper tanks or setups with a mix of corals.
• Metal Halide lights: Provide intense lighting but should be used with caution in shallow tanks to prevent light stress.

🌬️ Flow Requirements

Cyphastrea corals prefer gentle to moderate water flow. While they do benefit from some movement, strong, direct water currents can cause damage to their delicate tissues. A steady, moderate flow is best to ensure proper nutrient delivery and waste removal without putting stress on the coral.

Ideal Flow Conditions:

• Flow Strength: Moderate to gentle flow that moves the coral’s tissue gently. The flow should not be too turbulent or create strong direct streams hitting the coral.
• Flow Type: A random, turbulent flow is ideal, mimicking the natural surge of the reef environment.

Signs of Improper Flow:

Good Flow:

• Healthy extension of tissue, good coloration, and gradual growth.

Too Much Flow:

• The coral may retract its tissue, leading to potential damage and closed polyps.

Too Little Flow:

• The coral may appear unhealthy with poor extension or a pale color, and detritus may accumulate on the colony.

🍽️ Feeding Requirements

Cyphastrea corals are photosynthetic, but they can benefit from occasional supplemental feeding. While they derive most of their nutrition from light, feeding zooplankton, phytoplankton, or liquid coral foods can enhance their growth and coloration, especially in aquariums with lower light or when rapid growth is desired.

What to Feed:

• Coral Foods: Liquid coral foods containing amino acids, vitamins, and trace elements. They can also feed on small particles of zooplankton and phytoplankton.

Feeding Frequency:

• Light Feeding: Once or twice a week, depending on coral health and tank nutrient levels.
• Growth Feeding: Up to three times per week, depending on the coral’s needs.

🏝️ Placement Tips

• Placement in the Tank: Cyphastrea should be placed in a location within the tank that provides moderate light and gentle to moderate water flow. These corals do well on the substrate or on flat rocks where they can encrust and spread over time.
• Tankmates: Cyphastrea corals do best in peaceful aquariums with non-aggressive tankmates. Avoid placing them near other corals that may sting or damage their tissues.

Care Tips:

• Acclimation: Cyphastrea corals are relatively hardy, but it is important to acclimate them slowly to avoid shock from changes in lighting, flow, or water parameters.
• Regular Monitoring: Check water quality regularly to ensure stable parameters, as fluctuations in salinity, pH, or nutrients can lead to stress and hinder growth.
• Healthy Growth: Watch for signs of healthy tissue expansion and vibrant coloration as indicators of optimal care.