Green Pagoda Coral - Turbinaria peltata - Medium/Large

Pagoda Corals (Turbinaria peltata) exist in a variety of shapes and colors. Most common colors are green and brown with other variations of these colors showing up occasionally. Shape is highly variable, as this coral will adapt to whatever space it has available, and is found in many different locations. Colonies under higher light will generally grow in a more "tightly rolled" or closed cup while lower-light colonies tend to be flatter.

Pagoda Corals (Turbinaria peltata) are in the same genus as other Scroll Corals (Turbinaria sp.). However, they typically have a much different morphology. Scroll Corals will have a very delicate skeletal structure and many small polyps, where Pagoda Corals will have a more substantial skeleton with fewer, larger polyps.

They are relatively hardy corals and are recommended for aquarists of all levels. Place this coral in medium to high light and medium to high water movement. When positioning the coral in the aquarium be sure that it is lying in a way so as not to collect debris on the surface. If debris collects and begins to decay it can easily damage or destroy the coral by causing an infection.

In adding to using the lighting to product food through the algae in its tissue, this coral will also feed on meaty foods like brine shrimp, plankton, Cyclopeeze and similar items. It extends feeding tentacles during the day but can take days to a few weeks to extend their tentacles after being stressed or acclimated to a new environment.