Orange Cup Coral
Also called Sunflower Coral, Sun Coral, Orange Tube Coral or Turret Coral, the Orange Cup Coral is a beautiful and sought-after addition to aquarium reef environments. These brilliant corals have tubular polyps that may resemble up-turned bells, cups or small flowers. Healthy specimens of Orange Cup Coral are a light orange to an almost yellow color.
Orange Cup Coral Appearance
The Orange Cup Coral is a small polyp stony (SPS) coral. The genus name, Turbinaria, is derived from the Greek word turbinatus (cone-shaped) because it usually grows in a cup shape while living on the reef. It may also appear as ruffled ridges, plates, vases or scrolls. Orange Cup Coral polyps usually appear fat or swollen, with the main skeleton light and porous with a spherical shape.
Orange Cup Coral Care
Orange Cup Coral require particulate matter from the water for nutrition because they lack zooxanthellae, and does not receive nutrients manufactured from light. It should be provided ample space in the aquarium because it does grow quickly. Orange Cup Coral is a peaceful reef inhabitant and does not bother other corals that are placed in close proximity. Moderate lighting is required, as well as moderate water movement, for optimum health.
Orange Cup Coral Tank Requirements
The Orange Cup Coral require moderate lighting, with tank temperatures between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. A pH value of 8.3 and 8.4 and a specific gravity of measuring between 1.023 and 1.025 should be maintained. Trace elements should be checked regularly and replaced as needed. If water current is present, Orange Cup Coral thrives in low or moderate water flow.
Orange Cup Coral Growth and Feeding
In order for most Orange Cup Coral to survive, they require feedings at least twice per day, usually once in the morning and once at night. Orange Cup Coral tends to benefit from brine shrimp or plankton added to their diet. Food is primarily caught by the tentacles, but the mouth may open widely to allow the stinging cells of the gastrovascular cavity to trap food.
Orange Cup Coral Overview
Many hobby marine reef enthusiasts love the Orange Cup Coral because of their beautiful appearance. Divers and snorklers report that watching these corals feed at night in the wild is an amazing experience. They are considered moderately easy to care for if the correct tank environments are accomplished, and ample space is provided for them.
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