Elegance Coral (Catalaphyllia jardinei)

Catalaphyllia jardinei, the Elegance Coral, is one of the most spectacular LPS corals available — extending long, flowing tentacles with vivid fluorescent green or purple tips that billow gracefully in gentle current. It was once a staple of the reef hobby but suffered a period of poor availability and poor survival from certain collection localities. Indo-Pacific Australian-sourced specimens have proven significantly more hardy and are the recommended source for Belgian reef enthusiasts.

Low to medium PAR (50–150) — high light causes bleaching. Gentle, indirect flow — mimicking deep water turbulence rather than direct jet. Alk 8–9 dKH, Ca 400–450 ppm, temp 24–26°C. Sand bed placement essential for Indo-Pacific specimens (rock placement for Red Sea variants). Target feed with meaty foods 2–3× weekly. Prone to 'Elegance Coral Syndrome' (rapid tissue necrosis) in suboptimal conditions. Experienced reefers only.