Tubastraea micranthus, commonly known as the Orange Cup Coral, is a large polyp stony (LPS) coral from the family Dendrophylliidae. This species is prized for its brilliant orange polyps and distinctive cup-shaped corallites, making it a stunning addition to mature marine reef tanks.
Care Level: Moderate. Tubastraea micranthus requires specific husbandry due to its non-photosynthetic nature, relying entirely on feeding rather than light for nutrition.
Lighting: Low to moderate lighting is recommended since this coral does not contain symbiotic zooxanthellae. Intense lighting is unnecessary and may cause stress.
Water Flow: Moderate water flow is ideal to ensure adequate delivery of food particles and to prevent detritus accumulation around the polyps.
Feeding: As a non-photosynthetic coral, Tubastraea micranthus requires regular feeding of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped marine plankton. Target feeding 2-3 times per week supports optimal health and growth.
Placement: Position in shaded or lower-light areas of the aquarium with moderate flow. Ensure sufficient space from neighbouring corals to prevent aggression, as Tubastraea micranthus can extend sweeper tentacles.
Reef Compatibility: Yes, with adequate spacing. This coral is generally reef safe but may exhibit territorial behaviour towards nearby corals.
Origin: Not Provided.
Maximum Size: Large colonies can reach up to 30 cm in diameter under optimal conditions.
Minimum Tank Size: 90 litres (approximately 20 gallons) to provide stable water parameters and space for growth.
Regular water quality monitoring and stable parameters are essential to maintain this coral’s health. Tubastraea micranthus is an excellent choice for advanced hobbyists looking to diversify their LPS coral collection with a visually striking, non-photosynthetic species.
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