© Diego Delso / CC BY-SA 4.0Pocillopora Verrucosa
Pocillopora verrucosa is a reef-building coral in the Pocilloporidae family, known for its thick, short branches that radiate outward from a central base. Its surface is covered in small nodules called verrucae, a defining feature that helps distinguish it from related species. Hardy and fast-growing, it's often recommended as an entry-level SPS (small-polyp stony) coral for aquarists moving beyond soft corals. Its branching growth form adds striking texture and structure to any reef layout.
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Pocillopora Verrucosa key facts
- Care level
- Intermediate
- Size
- Colonies to about 30cm across
- Temperature
- 24〜27℃
- Diet
- Mainly nutrition from symbiotic zooxanthellae, supplemented with powdered coral foods and phytoplankton.
- Lighting
- Prefers strong light; LiveAquaria lists high lighting for the genus. Start newly added colonies at reduced intensity and raise it over several weeks.
- Flow & Placement
- Detritus collects between the branches, so give strong randomised flow. Place it high on the rockwork and thin or reposition it once the branches crowd, so water still reaches the interior.
- 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
- Most of its nutrition comes from photosynthesis, but it extends its polyps at night to take zooplankton. Powdered coral foods may be offered as a supplement.
- Notes
- The IUCN lists it as Endangered. As a scleractinian it falls under the blanket CITES Appendix II listing, and international trade requires permits.
About Pocillopora Verrucosa
A hardy, fast-growing SPS coral known for its verrucae-covered branches, popular as an entry point into stony coral keeping.
7 things to know before welcoming a Pocillopora Verrucosa
1Relatively Hardy for an SPS
This species is considered suitable for intermediate keepers, and is relatively tolerant of environmental fluctuations compared to many other SPS corals. That said, it still requires more attention to water quality and lighting than soft corals.
2Verrucae Are the Key ID Feature
The small wart-like verrucae covering its branches give the species its name and serve as the main way to distinguish it from closely related Pocillopora species. Checking their density and arrangement is useful when selecting a specimen.
3Fast Growth With Branching Form
Thick, short branches radiate outward from the base and the colony grows at a relatively fast pace. When placing it in a layout, it's wise to leave enough room for the branches to spread over time.
4Grows to About 30 cm Across
Colonies can reach up to about 30 cm in diameter. Consider tank size and spacing from neighboring corals when deciding where to place it.
5Needs Adequate Light and Flow
As a reef-building coral, it relies on photosynthesis from its symbiotic algae, so placement under adequate lighting with moderate water flow is essential. Good flow also helps prevent debris from accumulating between the branches.
6Stable Water Quality Matters
Like most SPS corals, it can be sensitive to sudden shifts in water parameters such as calcium and alkalinity. It's a good idea to confirm your tank's water quality is stable before introducing it.
7Give It Space From Neighbors
As it grows, its branches spread outward, so it's best to leave generous spacing from other corals from the start to avoid contact-based stinging conflicts as they expand.
Frequently asked questions about Pocillopora Verrucosa
- Q.Can beginners keep this coral?
- A.This species is generally rated as suitable for intermediate keepers. It's often chosen as an entry point for aquarists moving from soft corals into keeping SPS corals.
- Q.How is it different from other Pocillopora species?
- A.The verrucae covering its branch surfaces are the main feature used to distinguish it from other Pocillopora species. Its thick, short branches radiating from the base are another notable characteristic.
- Q.How large does it grow?
- A.Colonies can grow to a maximum diameter of about 30 cm. Since growth is relatively fast, it's important to plan layout spacing with future expansion in mind.
- Q.What should I consider when placing it in the tank?
- A.As a reef-building coral, it needs sufficient lighting and moderate water flow. Since its branches spread as it grows, it's also important to leave enough space from neighboring corals.
- Q.Is this species subject to CITES?
- A.Pocillopora Verrucosa 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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