Description
Cyphastrea are a genus of massive, reef-building stony corals, commonly known as brain corals or meteor corals. They are part of the Merulinidae family and are popular in reef aquariums due to their unique appearance and vibrant colors.
Here's a more detailed description:
Key Characteristics:
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Growth Pattern:
Cyphastrea corals can grow in a variety of forms, including encrusting, branching, and plating. They are known for their ability to encrust surfaces and form massive colonies.
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Polyps:
They have small, star-shaped polyps that are characteristic of Small Polyp Stony (SPS) corals.
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Color:
Cyphastrea come in a wide range of colors, from red and blue to green, and even more unique combinations.
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Natural Habitat:
They are native to the Indo-Pacific region, where they are found in various reef environments, including shaded or low-light areas.
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Care:
They are generally considered relatively hardy corals and can adapt to a variety of tank conditions, but they prefer low to moderate light levels.
Popular Varieties:
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Meteor Shower:
One of the most popular color morphs is the red and blue "Meteor Shower" variant.
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Other Color Morph:
Other vibrant color variations are also available, such as green, pink, and yellow.
In Summary:
Cyphastrea corals are attractive, hardy, and versatile reef corals that come in a variety of forms and colors. They are popular with reef aquarium hobbyists for their unique appearance, ability to grow in different areas of the tank, and their ability to adapt to a variety of tank conditions
