Birdsnest Coral Care Guide
Seriatopora hystrix · Saltwater SPS Coral
What Birdsnest Coral look like
Seriatopora hystrix, commonly known as Birdsnest Coral, exhibits a distinctive morphology characterized by its branching structure that can reach up to 30 centimeters in height. The branches are typically slender and form a bushy appearance, with a unique interlocking pattern that resembles a bird's nest, hence the common name. The coral's polyps are small, typically extending 1-2 mm in diameter, and are often brightly colored in shades of green, blue, or brown, depending on the specific environmental conditions and light exposure. Sexual dimorphism is not pronounced in this species, though individual polyps may exhibit slight variations in coloration. Defensive adaptations include the presence of nematocysts within the polyps, which can deliver a mild sting to deter potential predators. The coral's skeleton is composed of aragonite, providing structural integrity and resilience against environmental stressors.
Behavior & temperament
Birdsnest Coral is primarily a sessile organism that relies on both photosynthesis and heterotrophic feeding for energy. It has a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, which reside within its tissues, allowing it to utilize sunlight for energy production. During the day, the polyps extend to capture plankton and other organic particles from the water column, exhibiting a feeding behavior that is most active in low light conditions. This species is known for its rapid growth rate and can quickly establish dominance in a reef environment. While generally peaceful, it can exhibit aggressive behavior towards neighboring corals through the use of its stinging cells, particularly when space is limited.
Diet & feeding
Seriatopora hystrix is primarily a photosynthetic coral that also captures zooplankton and organic detritus from the water column. In captivity, it thrives on a diet supplemented with phytoplankton and small particulate foods.
Behind the name
The genus name 'Seriatopora' is derived from the Latin 'seriatum', meaning 'in a series', and 'pora', meaning 'pore', referring to the coral's series of pores in its structure. The species name 'hystrix' is Latin for 'porcupine', alluding to the spiny appearance of its branches.
Plan your tank
Check the numbers before you buy: tank volume, salinity, salt mix, water changes, and your ongoing care routine.
Keeping Birdsnest Coral?
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