Stylophora Coral

Stylophora pistillata is a sturdy, fast-growing small-polyp stony (SPS) coral producing thick, club-tipped branches arranged in compact, bushy colonies across a wide range of colors from pastel pink and cream to vivid purple and green aquacultured morphs. Its robust branching structure is more tolerant of physical disturbance than many other SPS corals, and its rapid growth rate rewards diligent husbandry with impressive colony development within months. Frequently recommended as a first SPS coral for hobbyists transitioning from LPS reef tanks.

Place in high flow with intense lighting (150+ PAR). Requires stable Alk (8–9 dKH), Ca (420–450 ppm), and Mg (1280–1350 ppm) — maintain with two-part dosing or calcium reactor. Sensitive to sudden parameter swings and elevated nutrients (keep nitrate < 10 ppm, phosphate < 0.1 ppm). Aquaculture frags acclimate faster than wild colonies. Watch for browning (insufficient light) or tissue loss (bacterial infection, flow issues).