Candy Cane Coral
Caulastrea furcata
Hardy LPS (Large Polyp Stony) coral popular in reef aquariums for its robustness and vibrant colors (green, blue, brown). Forms fleshy polyps resembling trumpets. Moderate growth rate, suitable for reef beginners. Significant nocturnal extension for feeding.
Parameters
- Water type
- Saltwater
- Min volume
- 150 L
- Temperature
- 24–27 °C
- pH
- 8–8.4
- Carbonate hardness (KH)
- 7–10 °KH
- Salinity
- 33–36 g/L
- Calcium
- 380–450 mg/L
- Lifespan
- 10 years
- Diet
- carnivore
- Temperament
- paisible
- Difficulty
- facile
Environment
Mature reef aquarium of 150 liters minimum. 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 imperative. 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.
Tips & tankmates
Peaceful coral but possesses nocturnal sweeper tentacles that can reach 10–15 cm, allow space. Compatible with peaceful reef fish and invertebrates. Sensitive to sudden changes (salinity, temperature). Easy fragmentation (propagation). Check for 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
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