Purple Goniopora
One of the most sought after species of coral is the Purple Goniopora. It is also one of the least frequently available types of coral on the market today. 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. Also known as Flower Pot Coral, the absolutely beautiful Purple Goniopora is a beautiful addition to the aquarium, provided you can find a healthy frag.
Purple Goniopora Care
Surprisingly enough, this particularly delicate coral often thrives in more murky water conditions. Purple Goniopora care 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. Purple Goniopora is semi-aggressive toward the other marine invertebrates, and is nocturnal in feeding habits.
Purple Goniopora Appearance
Purple Goniopora 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. Purple Goniopora 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. Purple Goniopora often looks like a pot of bluish purple flowers or daisies.
Purple Goniopora Feeding
As with any of these species, Purple Goniopora 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. Purple Goniopora feeds upon acellular marine invertebrates, phytoplankton, zooplankton, and meaty bits.
Purple Goniopora Tank Lighting
For Purple Goniopora, 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.
Purple Goniopora Overall Experience
Even if you can find them, Purple Goniopora care 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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