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Platygyra Daedalea© NPS photo - Eva DiDonato / Public domain

Platygyra Daedalea

Platygyra daedalea, sometimes called the lesser valley coral, is a reef-building species in the Faviidae family known for the maze-like ridges and valleys etched across its skeleton. It occurs widely across the shallow reefs of the Indo-Pacific, where wild colonies can grow past a meter across. This coral is prized for its resilience and adaptability, making it a solid choice for anyone new to keeping corals. Colors tend toward muted browns and greens, giving tanks a calm, textured centerpiece. While its polyps aren't especially showy, the intricate skeletal pattern rewards a closer look and keeps the coral visually interesting over time.

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About Platygyra Daedalea

A hardy, beginner-friendly reef coral known for its maze-like skeleton, Platygyra daedalea can grow past a meter across. Key care facts and FAQs inside.

7 things to know before welcoming a Platygyra Daedalea

  1. 1Hardy and Beginner-Friendly

    Platygyra daedalea tolerates fluctuating conditions fairly well, making it a good choice for those new to coral keeping. Even so, keep a close eye on water parameters while the tank is still settling in.

  2. 2A Maze-Like Skeleton

    Its surface is etched with winding, maze-like valleys that give each colony a distinct pattern. Coloration also varies from browns to greens, adding to the appeal of choosing your own individual.

  3. 3Colonies Grow Large

    In the wild, colonies can exceed a meter across. In an aquarium it will also expand steadily over time, so plan for its eventual footprint when choosing a spot.

  4. 4Moderate Light and Flow

    There's no need for intense lighting or strong water flow — this coral does well under calmer conditions. Starting with slightly lower light after placement helps it acclimate.

  5. 5Give It Space From Neighbors

    Like other stony corals, it can extend sweeper tentacles that irritate nearby colonies. Leave enough distance between it and other corals to avoid stinging conflicts.

  6. 6Feeding Is Optional

    Most of its nutrition comes from photosynthetic algae living in its tissue, so supplemental feeding isn't required. If you do feed it, try small amounts while the polyps are extended.

  7. 7Avoid Moving It Once Placed

    Frequently relocating an established colony can stress it through sudden changes in light and flow. Consider its eventual size when planning where to place it.

Frequently asked questions about Platygyra Daedalea

Q.Is Platygyra daedalea suitable for beginners?
A.Yes — it's a relatively hardy coral that tolerates changing conditions reasonably well, making it a solid choice for those new to coral keeping. Even so, watch water parameters closely right after introducing it.
Q.How large does it get?
A.In the wild, colonies can grow past a meter across. In a tank it will also expand steadily over time, so it's worth planning space for its future size.
Q.Can it be kept next to other corals?
A.It can extend tentacles that irritate neighboring colonies, so give it plenty of distance from other corals. Placing it too close can lead to stinging damage on either side.
Q.Does it need to be fed?
A.Most of its nutrition comes from photosynthetic algae living in its tissue, so feeding isn't required. If you do feed it, offer small amounts while the polyps are extended.
Q.Are there any legal restrictions on this coral?
A.Platygyra daedalea is not subject to CITES.

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Learn more about Platygyra Daedalea in the encyclopedia

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Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.

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