Goniastrea Pectinata Care Guide
Goniastrea pectinata · Saltwater LPS Coral
What Goniastrea Pectinata look like
Goniastrea pectinata, commonly known as the scalloped brain coral, exhibits a robust and encrusting morphology characterized by its distinct, broad, and rounded corallites that are arranged in a meandering pattern. The maximum adult size can reach up to 30 cm in diameter, with individual colonies displaying a convoluted surface texture. This species shows minimal sexual dimorphism; however, variations in coloration can occur, ranging from brown to green or even blue hues, influenced by environmental factors and symbiotic zooxanthellae. Defensive adaptations include the presence of potent nematocysts within its tissue, which can deliver a mild sting to potential threats. Unique morphological features include its prominent septa and the presence of a well-defined calice, which houses the polyps that extend during feeding and night hours.
Behavior & temperament
Goniastrea pectinata is generally a solitary coral species that exhibits a slow growth rate and a relatively sedentary lifestyle. During the night, the polyps extend to feed on plankton and organic particulates, utilizing their stinging tentacles to capture prey. This coral species may engage in limited competition with neighboring corals through aggressive behaviors, such as the extension of mesenterial filaments to consume adjacent coral tissue. It does not exhibit significant social hierarchy but can form large colonies through asexual reproduction, contributing to its presence in reef ecosystems. Its overall temperament is non-aggressive towards other corals unless space is contested.
Diet & feeding
Goniastrea pectinata is primarily a heterotrophic feeder, relying on zooplankton and organic detritus in the water column, supplemented by photosynthesis from its symbiotic zooxanthellae. In captivity, it requires a diet rich in particulate foods, such as coral pellets and finely chopped seafood, along with regular feeding of phytoplankton.
Behind the name
The genus name 'Goniastrea' is derived from the Greek words 'gonia', meaning angle, and 'streos', meaning solid or firm, referring to the solid structure of the coral. The species name 'pectinata' comes from the Latin 'pectinatus', meaning comb-like, which describes the appearance of the corallites.
Plan your tank
Check the numbers before you buy: tank volume, salinity, salt mix, water changes, and your ongoing care routine.
Keeping Goniastrea Pectinata?
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