If any coral fits this description of eye candy, the candy coral has to be it. The Caulastrea species is often called by the common name candy coral. This is a very fitting name with the amazing color combinations it sports. This particular specimen is very bright...
The unique rasp like coralites and striking contrasting colors of the Acropora robusta catch the eye of coral reef enthusiasts without exception. It's interesting that this stony coral is not often seen. This coral is very hardy and grows nicely in a captive...
Many Montipora species can co exist and add striking color differences in reef aquariums. This is one quality that compliments the lower light and less demanding bio types as well as shaded areas in the contrary. These plating Montipora corals were allowed to grow in...
Propagating anemones can be easy and quite rewarding.  While many of these animals eventually split on their own, the process can be sped up with some careful cutting and tender loving care. The group pictured above was grown from a single bubble tip anemone over the...
Optimal water chemistry is much more than a set of perfect numbers. It is an over all balance of many minerals, as well as an ability to maintain stability over long periods of time. When excellent water chemistry is achieved you can see it in the animals. The...
Some corals, like the Acropora desalwii above, really add a blast of color to a reef aquarium.  This image was taken from the top of the coral, and shows the parts of the specimen that are exposed to the brightest light. The contrasting colors and striking pigments...
The group of coral specimens commonly named staghorn are some of my favorites. They grow extremely fast and come in a variety of pigments. These are one of the very important corals for reef growth. The mass they produce contributes to a large portion of the reef...
Stoney corals require many things to thrive. Once the basics are mastered, stability is most important. Keeping the parameters close to the natural sea water numbers will work every time as long as stability is considered. Chasing elevated parameters or sudden...
Every successful reef aquarist must, at some point, face an inevitable question: should I cut this particular coral.  Problems between corals arise from invasion of space, shading, and other overcrowding issues. The Montipora setosa pictured above has fallen into the...
The starting point with a captive reef aquarium can be the most difficult part of the equation. Often times the beginner starts with corals that are the most sensitive and demanding which lends to a higher failure rate. Choosing the correct animals at the gate can...