Pachyseris Speciosa

Pachyseris Speciosa key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Size

Colonies to several tens of cm

Temperature

24〜27℃

Diet

Mainly nutrition from symbiotic zooxanthellae, supplemented with liquid or powdered coral foods.

Lighting

Growing anywhere from 4 to 35 m, it does not require intense light. LiveAquaria lists high lighting, but it also keeps well under moderate illumination.

Flow & Placement

LiveAquaria lists strong flow and a middle position. Detritus settling on the upper plate causes tissue recession, so direct flow to sweep the surface.

Water Temperature & Quality

Water 24-27C, specific gravity 1.023-1.025 (33-35 ppt), KH 8-12, calcium 400-450 ppm, magnesium 1280-1350 ppm. Sudden swings in alkalinity are the most common cause of tissue recession.

Feeding

It has no polyps visible to the eye, so target-feeding pellets is not appropriate. Most of its nutrition comes from photosynthesis; liquid or powdered coral foods can be offered as a supplement.

Notes

The Japanese name given here properly belongs to the genus Pavona, not to this species. The IUCN lists it as Least Concern, but as a scleractinian it still falls under the blanket CITES Appendix II listing.

About Pachyseris Speciosa

Pachyseris speciosa is a reef coral with plate-like colonies covered in fine, concentric ridges. It adapts to low-to-moderate light and grows to a colony diameter of tens of centimeters, suited to intermediate keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Pachyseris Speciosa

1. 1Plate-Like Growth Form

   Pachyseris speciosa grows as a flat, plate-shaped colony that spreads outward. Viewed from above, it displays layer upon layer of fine, concentric ridges resembling tree rings.

2. 2Polyps Hidden From View

   Because its corallites are buried between the ridges, you won't see clearly visible tentacles or polyps the way you might with many other corals. Judging its condition instead comes down to reading changes in surface texture and color.

3. 3Tolerates Low-to-Moderate Light

   This coral doesn't require intense lighting, making it a practical option for tanks that can't provide strong light. Even so, introduce it gradually and avoid sudden changes in light intensity when acclimating a new colony.

4. 4Suited to Intermediate Keepers

   It's generally regarded as a species for intermediate keepers, requiring water quality, flow, and lighting to be kept within a fairly steady range. It's best introduced after you've built some basic experience with coral keeping.

5. 5Colonies Reach Tens of cm

   Mature colonies can reach a diameter of several tens of centimeters, so it's worth planning for future space when placing it. Since it spreads outward as a plate, keep its horizontal growth in mind when arranging your layout.

6. 6Flow and Placement Matter

   Sediment can accumulate on its flat surface, so placing it where gentle, steady flow reaches it helps keep it healthy. Avoid both overly strong current and stagnant spots.

7. 7Give Neighbors Space

   Because it spreads outward as it grows, contact with neighboring corals can trigger territorial aggression. Leave adequate space around it to account for its eventual size.

Frequently asked questions about Pachyseris Speciosa

Q.Is Pachyseris speciosa suitable for beginners?

A.It's generally considered a species for intermediate keepers. It's best to have some experience with basic water quality and lighting management for corals before taking one on.

Q.Why are the polyps barely visible?

A.Its corallites are buried between the concentric ridges, which is a natural feature of this species. Rather than looking for visible tentacles, judge its condition by changes in surface color and texture.

Q.How much light does it need?

A.It's said to tolerate low-to-moderate light levels. Even so, avoid sudden changes in lighting when introducing a new colony and acclimate it gradually.

Q.How large does it eventually grow?

A.Colonies can reach a diameter of several tens of centimeters. Since it spreads outward as a plate, it helps to plan for future space when placing it.

Q.Is Pachyseris speciosa listed under CITES?

A.Pachyseris Speciosa is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.

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