Red Carnation Coral
Red Carnation Coral is also commonly known as Colored Tree Coral, Colored Cauliflower Coral, and Strawberry Coral. The scientific name is Dendronephthya species. Since the Red Carnation Coral has spicules embedded in its body tissues for structure strength, it is comsidered as "soft coral." Spicules are very small crystal-like structures that help support the main body of this coral.
Red Carnation Coral Morphology
There are over 250 members of the Dendronephthya species. Red carnation coral is found in a rich red color, which along with orange is the most common color of this coral. Red carnation coral has many tentacles and each tentacle has eight polyps. It originates from the marine water bodies of the South-East Asian country, Indonesia.
Feeding Red Carnation Coral
Red carnation coral do not contain the symbiotic algae zooxanthellae. Their diet should include live baby brine shrimp, micro-plankton, and other small food designed for feeding invertebrates in order to survive in the reef aquarium. Because these foods must be available to them almost constantly, they are only recommended for the most expert reef keepers.
Red Carnation Coral Tank Requirements
If one is brave enough to attempt to keep a healthy colony of red carnation coral, water temperature should be kept at 72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Only low to moderate illumination is required, because it generally lacks the ability to be photosynthetic. Alternating moderate water flow in the aquarium is required. Specimens may seem to initially do well in the tank, but deteriorate rapidly if the right conditions are not met.
Red Carnation Coral Habitat and Care
This type of coral looks very interesting if attached to a reef ledge or in a cave in the marine aquarium. Carnation coral rarely if ever breeds in an aquarium environment. Many of the samples of this type of coral that are on the market are very unhealthy, and maintenance of this coral is not easy. A perfect habitat for red carnation coral is very difficult to achieve.
Overview Of Red Carnation Coral
By all accounts, carnation coral should only be cared for by the most dedicated and experienced reef keepers for the ultimate health of this coral. Red carnation coral requires constant care and a very acutely trained eye to notice any differences in the health and well being in the reef environment. Moderate water flow with a constant supply of high-quality nutrients is required to maintain its health and nutrition.
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