Goniopora Lobata
The most common reference name of the Goniopora Lobata is "Flowerpot Coral". Known for the difficulty aquarium hobbyists have in creating the ideal tank conditions for this type of coral, Goniopora Lobata is a unique and beautiful addition to anyone's hobby reef. It is known as a Large Polyp Stony (LPS) Coral and is native to the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea, and the Central Pacific region.
Goniopora Lobata Care
Surprisingly enough, this particularly delicate coral often thrives in more murky water conditions. Goniopora Lobata is often more of a trial and error situation, as there are a lot of theories as to the best way to maintain their health. Goniopora Lobata is semi-aggressive toward the other marine invertebrates, and is nocturnal in feeding habits.
Goniopora Lobata Appearance
Goniopora Lobata forms large colonies, which are generally hemispherical or columnar in shape. Corallites have thick but porous walls and calices are filled with compacted septa and columellae. Goniopora Lobata coral polyps have 24 tentacles, and different species usually have polyps of different shapes and colors. Polyps are usually long and flashy and tentacles are normally extended day and night. Goniopora Lobata occurs in brown, tan, yellow and green colors.
Goniopora Lobata Feeding
Goniopora Lobata filter feeds a few times per week when open. While some choose to not feed their Goniopora at all (relying on photosynthesis), others have achieved success in feeding phytoplankton and other small particle commercial foods and brine shrimp. Goniopora Lobata feeds upon acellular marine invertebrates, phytoplankton, zooplankton, and meaty bits. It is well known in the coral hobby community that feeding this coral is more of a trial and error adventure.
Goniopora Lobata Tank Lighting
For Goniopora Lobata, tank conditions sometimes need to be "perfect" in order for them to thrive. Intense or medium light is crucial to keeping this coral in a tank. Even turning the lights out for 24 hours can have an adverse affect on this type of coral. Goniopora will retreat fully into their skeleton and often die if not lighted properly.
Goniopora Lobata Overall Experience
In general, Goniopora Lobata and propagation should be left to the more experienced reef keepers. They are traditionally prone to bacterial infection and fungal diseases, which adds to the delicacy of their nature. Proper handing of this coral is crucial, as it damages very easily.
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