Palythoa caribaeorum | L

Palythoa caribaeorum is a colonial soft coral polyp native to tropical marine environments. This large variant is prized for its striking appearance and relatively robust nature, making it a popular choice for reef aquarium hobbyists seeking to add texture and colour to their tanks.

Care Level: Moderate care is recommended. This species adapts well to a range of conditions but benefits from stable water parameters and consistent maintenance.

Lighting Requirements: Moderate lighting is ideal. Palythoa caribaeorum thrives under LED or T5 lighting setups that provide sufficient PAR without excessive intensity that could cause bleaching.

Water Flow: Moderate water flow is preferred to ensure adequate nutrient exchange and to prevent detritus accumulation on the polyps.

Placement: Position this coral on stable rockwork with enough space to accommodate its colonial expansion. Avoid placing too close to aggressive corals, as Palythoa can engage in chemical warfare.

Reef Compatibility: Yes, with adequate spacing. While generally reef safe, Palythoa caribaeorum can produce palytoxin, so care should be taken during handling and placement to avoid contact with sensitive species.

Diet: Primarily photosynthetic via symbiotic zooxanthellae, but benefits from occasional feeding of fine particulate foods such as phytoplankton or coral-specific supplements.

Minimum Tank Size: A minimum of 75 litres (20 gallons) is recommended to provide stable water conditions and space for growth.

Origin: Tropical Western Atlantic and Caribbean regions.

Maximum Size: Colonies can reach up to 30 cm (12 inches) or more in diameter under optimal conditions.

Handling Precautions: Palythoa species can contain palytoxin, a potent toxin. Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling or fragging this coral, and ensure good ventilation.