Description
Clove Polyps – Clavularia spp.
Mother Colony Pictured
Clavularia spp., known as the Clove Polyps, are graceful, fast-growing soft corals admired for their delicate flower-like appearance and constant motion. Each polyp features a slender stalk topped with feathery tentacles that open and close rhythmically, creating a mesmerizing, waving effect across the reef. Available in a variety of morphs—from metallic greens and purples to ultra-grade neon variants—Clove Polyps provide vibrant color and texture while remaining easy to care for, making them a favorite among reef aquarists of all experience levels.
Lighting: Moderate (80–150 PAR); best coloration and extension achieved under blue-dominant LED lighting with balanced white spectrum
Flow: Moderate; prefers gentle, alternating flow that allows polyps to sway naturally without causing retraction
Placement: Bottom to mid-level on rock or rubble; will spread across rock surfaces, so isolate if containment is desired
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH
Calcium: 400–440 ppm
Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
Nutrients: Moderate (NO₃ 5–15 ppm, PO₄ 0.05–0.10 ppm); slightly nutrient-rich systems enhance polyp density and color vibrancy
Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic; may absorb dissolved organics or benefit from occasional broadcast feeding of phytoplankton or coral food blends
Aggression: Low; non-stinging but can overgrow slower-growing corals if not monitored
Growth Rate: Fast; encrusts rock surfaces and spreads rapidly under stable conditions
Care Level: Easy – highly adaptable and tolerant of a wide range of reef conditions
Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent for soft coral or mixed reef systems, providing motion and color contrast alongside zoanthids, mushrooms, and leathers
