Candy Cane Coral

Environment

Mature reef aquarium of minimum 150 liters. Requires moderate lighting (100–200 PAR), tolerates shaded areas. Prefers low to moderate flow, avoid direct current. Place on stable rock substrate, in lower or middle zone. Maintain calcium 380–450 mg/L, KH 7–10 °dKH, magnesium 1250–1350 mg/L. Stable temperature essential. Space away from other corals (stinging tentacles at night).

Feeding

Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae (primary) + supplemental feeding recommended 2–3 times/week: brine shrimp, mysis, cyclops, phytoplankton. Feed in the evening when polyps are extended. Benefits from amino acids and trace elements.

Health & common diseases

Caulastrea is a relatively hardy coral, but can be affected by bleaching due to stress (high temperature, sudden parameter changes, excessive lighting). Monitor for necrotic tissue (brown or bleached areas) and prolonged polyp retraction, signs of stress or bacterial infection. Prevention requires stable parameters (calcium 400-450 mg/L, KH 8-12, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L), moderate lighting, and regular feeding to maintain its immune system. Avoid contact with aggressive corals and maintain good water quality with nitrates <10 mg/L and phosphates <0.1 mg/L.

Tips & tankmates

Peaceful coral but has nocturnal sweeper tentacles that can reach 10–15 cm, provide space. Compatible with peaceful reef fish and invertebrates. Sensitive to sudden variations (salinity, temperature). Easy fragmentation (propagation). Check for absence of parasites (nudibranchs, flatworms) when purchasing. Not a major CITES protected species, but verify local regulations on wild-caught vs maricultured corals.

Sources

• Reef Builders - Caulastrea Care Guide
• CoralPedia
• WoRMS - World Register of Marine Species