Goniopora Jewel Rainbow Frag

Goniopora , often called flower coral , is a Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral famous for its long polyps that resemble delicate flowers and gently undulate in the current. Available in a variety of colors, including green, pink, purple, and red, Goniopora is a striking aesthetic choice for a reef aquarium. While it can be a challenge for beginner aquarists, it is ideal for intermediate to advanced hobbyists capable of providing stable conditions and rigorous maintenance.

Maintenance guide:

1. Aquarium Size and Configuration:

• Minimum volume: 75 liters to guarantee stability of parameters.

• Lighting: Moderate to bright (recommended PAR: 80–150 PAR). Quality LED or T5 lighting is essential to support photosynthesis.

• Placement:

• Middle or lower areas of the aquarium, away from too much light.

• Allow at least 10–15 cm of space around the coral to prevent its long polyps from touching other corals.

2. Water parameters:

• Temperature: 24–26°C.

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026 (specific gravity).

• pH: 7.8–8.4.

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm.

• Alkalinity (KH): 8–12 dKH.

• Magnesium: 1250–1450 ppm.

• Nitrates: Less than 10 ppm (ideally 2–5 ppm).

• Phosphates: Less than 0.05 ppm.

3. Fluent :

• Weak to moderate. A gentle current allows for complete extension of the polyps without damaging them.

4. Food :

• Although it draws part of its energy from photosynthesis, Goniopora benefits from additional nutrition:

• Phytoplankton, zooplankton or specific foods for LPS corals.

• Frequency: 2 to 3 times per week, preferably at night when the polyps are deployed.

5. Compatibility and cohabitation:

• Reef compatible: Yes, but be careful of the sensitivity of polyps to aggressive corals.

• Ideal Companions: Peaceful fish such as gobies, clownfish or non-aggressive dwarf angelfish.

• Avoid: Fish or invertebrates likely to nibble on its delicate polyps, such as certain crabs and butterfly fish.

6. Maintenance and growth:

• Gently clean the base of the coral to avoid the accumulation of debris and algae.

• Perform regular water changes (10–15% every two weeks) to maintain optimal water quality.

• Slow but steady growth under optimal conditions.

7. Signs of good health:

• Polyps well deployed, vibrating gently under the current.

• Vivid colors and no bleached areas or tissue retraction.

8. Special precautions:

• Long polyps are sensitive to mechanical stress, avoid handling them directly.

• Maintain stable water parameters, as Goniopora is sensitive to sudden changes.

• Provide calm conditions, as this coral can be stressed by sudden movements or aggressive fish.