*Please Note These Are Colonies About Palm Size*
Green Star Polyps (GSP) Coral (Pachyclavularia violacea) is a popular and hardy soft coral known for its vibrant green coloration and relatively easy care. It’s a great choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding and maintaining GSP Coral:
Description
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Appearance: GSP Coral is renowned for its bright green, star-shaped polyps that extend from a central mat or base. The polyps are small but densely packed, giving the coral a lush, carpet-like appearance. The coral's base can be brown or beige, providing a stark contrast to the vibrant green polyps.
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Structure: The coral forms a mat-like structure that can spread rapidly across surfaces. The individual polyps are quite small but can cover a large area, creating a dense and colorful display.
Care Requirements
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Lighting:
- Intensity: Prefers moderate to high lighting. GSP Coral can adapt to a range of lighting conditions but generally thrives under moderate to bright light.
- Type: LED or T5 fluorescent lighting works well. A balanced light spectrum that includes both blue and white light will support healthy growth and vibrant coloration.
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Water Flow:
- Strength: Thrives in moderate to strong water flow. Good water movement helps keep debris away from the coral and ensures it receives sufficient nutrients. However, very strong currents should be avoided as they can cause physical damage to the polyps.
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Water Conditions:
- Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C).
- Salinity: Keep salinity between 1.023 and 1.025 specific gravity.
- pH: Aim for a pH range of 8.1-8.4.
- Calcium: Maintain calcium levels between 400-450 ppm.
- Alkalinity: Keep alkalinity at 8-12 dKH.
- Nitrates and Phosphates: GSP Coral is relatively tolerant of varying nitrate and phosphate levels, but keeping them low will help prevent unwanted algae growth and maintain overall health.
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Feeding:
- Diet: GSP Coral primarily relies on photosynthesis but can benefit from supplemental feeding. It can capture small plankton and organic particles from the water. You can also provide finely chopped meaty foods or specialized coral foods.
- Frequency: Feed once or twice a week, depending on the coral’s response and overall tank conditions.
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Placement:
- Position: Place the coral in a stable location where it can receive indirect to moderate light. GSP Coral can grow quickly and spread, so make sure it has enough space to expand without interfering with other corals.
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Maintenance:
- Pruning: Regularly check for and remove any overgrowth or dead areas. GSP Coral can spread aggressively and may overtake other corals if not managed properly.
- Water Quality: Conduct regular water changes (10-20% weekly) and monitor water parameters to maintain a stable environment.
Additional Tips
- Compatibility: GSP Coral is generally peaceful but can spread rapidly and potentially overtake other corals or reef structures if not controlled. It’s best to place it in a location where it has space to expand or on a separate rock or piece of substrate.
- Propagation: GSP Coral can be easily propagated by cutting a piece of the mat and attaching it to a new substrate. Ensure the cutting is securely placed until it attaches and begins to grow.
By providing the appropriate lighting, water flow, and care, your Green Star Polyps Coral can thrive and become a vibrant and eye-catching addition to your reef aquarium. Its lush green color and rapid growth make it a popular choice for adding a dynamic element to your tank