Cyphastrea- Spongebob

Cyphastrea Corals are a popular choice for reef aquariums due to their hardiness and unique appearance. Here are the key care requirements for Cyphastrea Corals:

Tank Setup

• Tank Size: Cyphastrea Corals can thrive in both nano and larger reef tanks. A minimum of 10 gallons is suitable for smaller colonies.

• Placement: Place Cyphastrea Corals on the substrate or rockwork, typically in lower to middle areas of the tank. They prefer horizontal surfaces but can adapt to vertical surfaces as well.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature between 75-80°F (24-27°C).

• Salinity: Keep the salinity at 1.024-1.026 specific gravity.

• pH: Maintain a pH level between 8.1 and 8.4.

• Alkalinity: Keep alkalinity between 8-12 dKH.

• Calcium: Maintain calcium levels between 400-450 ppm.

• Magnesium: Keep magnesium levels between 1250-1350 ppm.

• Nitrates and Phosphates: Aim for low nitrate levels (below 5 ppm) and phosphate levels (below 0.03 ppm) to prevent algae growth and maintain coral health.

Lighting

• Moderate to Low Lighting: Cyphastrea Corals thrive under moderate to low lighting conditions. LED lighting is ideal, but they can also do well under T5 and metal halide lights. Too much light can cause bleaching, so avoid placing them under intense light.

• Light Duration: Provide a 10-12 hour light cycle to mimic natural daylight patterns.

Water Flow

• Moderate to Low Flow: Cyphastrea Corals prefer moderate to low water flow. High flow can cause tissue damage, while too little flow can lead to detritus buildup. Adjust powerheads and wavemakers to create a gentle, indirect flow.

Feeding

• Photosynthesis and Feeding: While Cyphastrea Corals derive some energy from photosynthesis through their symbiotic zooxanthellae, they also benefit from supplemental feeding.

• Types of Food: Feed them small particulate foods like phytoplankton, zooplankton, and coral-specific liquid or powdered foods. Target feeding with a turkey baster or pipette is effective.

• Feeding Frequency: Feed Cyphastrea Corals 1-2 times a week to promote growth and vibrant coloration.

Maintenance

• Water Quality: Regular water changes (10-20% biweekly) help maintain water quality and replenish essential trace elements.

• Testing: Regularly test water parameters to ensure they remain within the optimal range. Adjust as necessary to maintain stability.

• Pest Control: Inspect Cyphastrea Corals for pests such as flatworms or nudibranchs. Use a coral dip treatment if needed to remove pests before introducing new corals to the tank.

Compatibility

• Peaceful Tank Mates: Cyphastrea Corals are generally peaceful and can coexist with other corals and reef-safe fish. However, they should be given space to prevent aggression from other corals with sweeper tentacles.

• Avoid Aggressive Corals: Keep Cyphastrea Corals away from aggressive or fast-growing corals that might overshadow or sting them.

Additional Considerations

• Fragging: Cyphastrea Corals can be propagated through fragging. Use a sharp coral saw to cut the coral into smaller pieces, ensuring each piece has at least one polyp. Allow the frags to heal in a separate area before reintroducing them to the main tank.

• Acclimation: When introducing Cyphastrea Corals to your tank, acclimate them slowly to prevent shock. Use the drip acclimation method to gradually adjust them to the tank's water parameters.

• Observation: Regularly observe the coral for signs of stress or disease. Healthy Cyphastrea Corals will display full, vibrant polyps.

By providing the right conditions, regular feeding, and careful maintenance, Cyphastrea Corals can thrive and add unique textures and colors to your reef aquarium.