Pocillopora verrucosa

Pocillopora verrucosa is closely related to P. damicornis, distinguished by more pronounced verrucae (wart-like nodules on branch surfaces) and typically deeper pink to rose colouration. It forms upright, branching colonies with strong structural integrity and is a popular choice for aquascaping upper reef zones where light intensity is highest. Like all Pocillopora, it requires stable alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium to sustain steady skeletal growth.

High PAR (200–400+), high water flow (10–30× tank volume). pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.023–1.025, temperature 24–27°C. Maintain calcium 400–450 ppm, alkalinity 8–11 dKH, magnesium 1250–1350 ppm. Position in upper rockwork for maximum light. Responds well to supplemental amino acid dosing. Frag by clean cuts between branches.