
Cladiella (Colt Coral)
Cladiella, commonly known as Colt Coral, is a classic soft coral known for its soft, finger-like branches that sway gently in the current. Typically white or cream in color, it brings calm, flowing movement to any reef tank. Extremely hardy and fast-growing, it tolerates a range of water conditions well, making it a great choice for beginners just starting out with coral keeping. Since it has no hard skeleton, it feels soft to the touch and works well as either a centerpiece or a supporting element in an aquascape. Adults typically reach 10 to 30 cm and can thrive for 10 years or more with proper care.
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About Cladiella (Colt Coral)
Cladiella (Colt Coral) is a hardy, fast-growing soft coral with soft, finger-like white or cream branches. Beginner-friendly and easy to keep, it grows to 10-30cm and can live 10+ years.
7 things to know before welcoming a Cladiella (Colt Coral)
1Hardy & Beginner-Friendly
This is an extremely hardy species that tolerates fluctuations in water quality relatively well, making it a popular entry point into soft coral keeping. It's unlikely to collapse from minor environmental changes, making it a good choice for a first soft coral.
2Prefers Gentle Flow
Moderate, gentle water flow helps the finger-like polyps extend fully for a healthy appearance. Flow that's too strong can cause it to stay contracted, so it's worth adjusting placement while observing its response.
3Moderate Lighting Works
It doesn't require intense lighting, so it adapts well to a wide range of lighting setups. If lighting conditions need to change significantly, acclimate it gradually over time.
4Grows Quickly
Under good conditions, it grows through division and budding, gradually increasing in number. Adults reach around 10 to 30 cm, so it's worth leaving enough space for it in your aquascape.
5Give It Space From Neighbors
As it grows, it can come into contact with neighboring corals, so it's best to leave room around it when placing it. Contact between soft corals can sometimes cause problems for either colony.
6Minimal Feeding Needed
It gets most of its energy through photosynthesis, so feeding requirements are minimal. It can also pick up additional nutrition from plankton present in the tank water.
7Don't Worry If It Contracts
It may temporarily shrink in response to stimulation or stress, but it typically re-expands once conditions settle. If it stays closed for an extended period, it's worth reviewing water flow and water quality.
Frequently asked questions about Cladiella (Colt Coral)
- Q.Is this coral suitable for beginners?
- A.Yes, Cladiella is hardy and relatively tolerant of environmental changes, making it a popular entry point into coral keeping. With basic water quality management, it's approachable even for first-time keepers.
- Q.How large does it grow?
- A.Adults typically reach about 10 to 30 cm. It's worth choosing a placement that accounts for available space and the surrounding aquascape.
- Q.How long can it live?
- A.With proper care, it can live for 10 years or more. It's known as a coral you can keep for the long term.
- Q.Does it need to be fed?
- A.Since it gets most of its nutrition from photosynthesis, regular feeding generally isn't necessary. It can also obtain nutrition from plankton present in the tank water.
- Q.Are there any regulations to be aware of?
- A.Cladiella is not subject to CITES.
Useful tools for Cladiella (Colt Coral) care
Learn more about Cladiella (Colt Coral) in the encyclopedia
View Cladiella (Colt Coral) encyclopedia entry →
Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
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