Psammocora

Psammocora key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Size

Colonies to several tens of cm, varying by species

Temperature

24〜27℃

Diet

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

Lighting

Stable under moderate light. A sudden jump to very strong light bleaches it, so start at reduced intensity and raise it gradually.

Flow & Placement

Give moderate randomised flow and place it at mid-height on the rockwork. Encrusting species will grow over neighbours, so leave clearance.

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

This profile covers the genus Psammocora as a whole, and growth form and light requirement differ between species. As scleractinians they fall under the blanket CITES Appendix II listing and trade requires permits.

About Psammocora

Psammocora ("Samokora") is a reef coral with a sand-textured surface and tiny corallites; colony shape (encrusting, columnar, or leaf-like) varies by species. Best suited to intermediate keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Psammocora

1. 1Its Texture Is the Highlight

   The corallites are extremely small, so unlike many corals it doesn't rely on prominent polyps for visual interest. Instead, the finely textured, sand-dusted surface of the colony is the main attraction, shifting in appearance depending on how light falls across it.

2. 2Colony Shape Varies by Species

   Within the same genus, some colonies grow as encrusting mats over rock, others rise as columns, and still others spread as leaf-like plates. Checking which growth form a specific specimen has before buying makes it much easier to picture how it will fit into your layout.

3. 3An Intermediate-Level Coral

   This species is generally considered suitable for keepers who already have some grounding in reef basics — water quality, lighting, and flow management. If this would be your first coral, it's worth building experience with easier species first before adding it.

4. 4Placement Should Match Its Shape

   Encrusting specimens tend to do well tucked into rock crevices or at the base of the reefscape, while columnar or leaf-like forms benefit from open space around them as they grow. Planning your layout with future spread in mind helps the colony develop well.

5. 5Watch for Signs of Bleaching

   Stress or declining water quality can cause the coral's surface to pale or turn whitish around the corallites. Knowing its normal coloration helps you catch changes early, so you can review water parameters and lighting promptly if something looks off.

6. 6Adjust Flow and Light Gradually

   Excessively strong flow or lighting can damage its delicate surface tissue. After placing a new colony, it's best to observe it for a while and fine-tune flow and light based on how its color and surface condition respond.

7. 7Give It Time to Settle In

   The stress of shipping and acclimation can make its color and surface texture look slightly different right after arrival. Keep water conditions stable for the first few days to weeks, and avoid handling or moving it unnecessarily so it can settle in.

Frequently asked questions about Psammocora

Q.What does "Samokora" mean?

A.Samokora is the trade name used for corals in the genus Psammocora. It derives from part of the scientific name and is the term commonly used by shops and hobbyist references.

Q.Is it suitable for beginners?

A.Psammocora (Samokora) is generally considered an intermediate-level coral. It's best to get comfortable with reef-keeping basics before adding it to your tank.

Q.Do all colonies have the same shape?

A.No — growth form varies by species, including encrusting, columnar, and leaf-like shapes. It's worth checking which form a specific specimen has before you buy it.

Q.Is it listed under CITES?

A.Psammocora 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.

Q.How large does it grow?

A.Colonies typically reach a diameter of several tens of centimeters, though the exact size depends on the species. It's worth factoring in future growth when choosing a placement.

Useful tools for Psammocora care

Learn more about Psammocora in the encyclopedia

More in this category