Description
Candy Cane Coral (Caulastrea furcata / Caulastrea curvata)
A hardy and colorful LPS coral with fleshy, round polyps growing on branching skeletons. The most common varieties feature bright neon green centers with pale white or blue-striped outer rings, giving the appearance of traditional candy canes. It is one of the easiest and most rewarding stony corals to keep.
Lighting
Low to moderate lighting
PAR: 50–150
Placement (Aquarium Zone)
Lower to mid reef
Can be placed on:
Sandbed
Lower rockwork
Mid-level rock structures
Temperature
24–27°C (75–81°F)
Salinity
1.024–1.026 SG
pH
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity
8–10 dKH
Calcium
420–450 ppm
Magnesium
1280–1380 ppm
Flow
Low to moderate, indirect flow
Avoid strong direct flow that prevents polyp expansion.
Diet
Photosynthetic + supplemental feeding
Foods:
Reef Energy AB+
Reef Roids
Mysis shrimp
Coral pellets
Finely chopped seafood
Adult Size (up to)
15–30 cm (6–12+ inches) colony size
Growth Rate
Moderate to fast
Care Level
Beginner
