Porites Cylindrica (Yellow Finger Porites)

Porites Cylindrica (Yellow Finger Porites) key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Size

Colonies to several tens of cm

Temperature

24〜27℃

Diet

Mainly nutrition from symbiotic zooxanthellae, supplemented with powdered coral foods and phytoplankton.

Lighting

LiveAquaria lists high lighting for this species (Yellow Porites Coral). Under weak light the yellow fades towards brown. Acclimate new colonies gradually.

Flow & Placement

LiveAquaria lists strong flow and a middle-to-top position. Tissue recedes where water stagnates inside the branches, so choose a well-flushed spot.

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 by its zooxanthellae. Powdered coral foods and phytoplankton can be offered as a supplement, but stable light and water chemistry matter more than feeding.

Notes

It grows fast and spreads its branches, so leave generous clearance from neighbouring corals. The IUCN lists it as Least Concern, but as a scleractinian it still falls under the blanket CITES Appendix II listing and trade requires permits.

About Porites Cylindrica (Yellow Finger Porites)

Porites cylindrica, the Yellow Finger Porites, is a hardy, fast-growing reef coral with smooth-surfaced, finger-like branches — an intermediate-level species reaching colony sizes of tens of centimeters.

7 things to know before welcoming a Porites Cylindrica (Yellow Finger Porites)

1. 1Lighting & Flow Placement

   As a reef-building coral, it prefers strong lighting and strong water flow. Place it in the middle to upper part of the tank where current can reach between the branches, which prevents debris buildup and keeps water from stagnating inside the branches and causing tissue recession.

2. 2Fast, Vigorous Growth

   This coral is hardy and grows quickly, so give it plenty of space to avoid crowding neighboring corals or equipment. Expect to rearrange your layout periodically as it expands.

3. 3Tiny Corallites, Subtle Signs

   Its individual polyp cups are extremely small, giving the surface a smooth appearance. Because subtle changes are easy to miss, check regularly for discoloration or signs of bleaching.

4. 4Keeping the Yellow Color

   True to its "Yellow Finger" nickname, brightly colored yellow morphs are commonly available. Coloration can shift with lighting and water quality, so watch for changes after introducing it and adjust your setup accordingly.

5. 5Branch Gaps Shelter Fish

   The gaps between its thick, finger-like branches make ideal hiding spots for small fish and shrimp. Consider tankmate compatibility when planning your layout for a natural-looking ecosystem.

6. 6Acclimate Gently at First

   Although hardy overall, it's sensitive to sudden shifts in water parameters. Take extra time acclimating it when introducing it to your tank, and raise the lighting gradually. Keeping current flowing between the branches helps it settle in.

7. 7Easy to Frag and Propagate

   Cutting off growing branch tips to raise as new colonies — fragging — works well with this species. It's a useful way to manage volume in your tank once it has grown large.

Frequently asked questions about Porites Cylindrica (Yellow Finger Porites)

Q.How difficult is Porites cylindrica to keep?

A.It's generally considered suitable for intermediate-level aquarists. It's hardy and grows quickly, but having a solid grasp of basic reef-keeping fundamentals like water quality and lighting will help it thrive.

Q.Can it be kept near other corals in the same tank?

A.Because it grows quickly and spreads its branches widely, watch for contact with neighboring corals. Leaving ample space and periodically adjusting your layout is recommended.

Q.How large does it grow?

A.Colonies typically reach tens of centimeters in diameter. Since it grows quickly, fragging can help you manage its size to fit your available space.

Q.Does its yellow color change depending on tank conditions?

A.Yellow-toned specimens, known as Yellow Finger Porites, can shift in coloration depending on lighting and water quality. It's a good idea to monitor its color after introduction and adjust your setup as needed.

Q.Is Porites cylindrica subject to CITES regulation?

A.Porites Cylindrica (Yellow Finger Porites) 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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