Green Star Polyp
BeginnerA hardy soft coral with green star-shaped polyps on a mat. Beautiful fluorescent green.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
24〜27℃
Lifespan
Several years+
Size
Mat-like
Diet
Photosynthesis
About
Green star polyps (Briareum spp., family Briareidae), commonly abbreviated GSP, are soft corals found throughout Indo-Pacific and Caribbean tropical reefs. Their characteristic purple-red encrusting mat (stolon) supports dense colonies of star-shaped polyps, each bearing eight slender green pinnules that fluoresce brilliantly under actinic illumination. GSP is extraordinarily adaptable, tolerating a wide range of lighting (50–300 PAR) and flow conditions, making it one of the most beginner-friendly corals available. Standard reef parameters (24–27°C, KH 8–11) are sufficient. Their aggressive growth is a double-edged quality: left untrimmed, stolon mats can blanket live rock entirely, smothering neighboring corals on contact. Regular pruning and careful placement away from other coral species are therefore essential. Propagation by cutting stolon pieces is effortless, and frags are among the most widely traded in the hobby.
Basic Info
Origin
tropical coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific and Caribbean
Lifespan
Several years+
Size
Mat-like
Temperature
24〜27℃
Diet
Photosynthesis
Care Guide
Lighting
Adapts to wide range of light
Flow
Medium flow opens all polyps
Propagation
Spreads rapidly by encrusting
Notes
Watch for overgrowth. May cover other corals
GSPStar-shapedFluorescent greenFast spreading
Green Star Polyp FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Green Star Polyp?
A
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Green Star Polyp?
A
The ideal temperature for Green Star Polyp is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Green Star Polyp?
A
The average lifespan of Green Star Polyp is Several years+. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
QHow large does Green Star Polyp get?
A
Green Star Polyp typically reaches Mat-like as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
QWhat should I feed Green Star Polyp?
A
Green Star Polyp feeds on: Photosynthesis. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
QWhat is the typical price for Green Star Polyp?
A
The price of Green Star Polyp varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Browse Coral ListingsRelated Articles
Green Water Guide for Medaka — How to Make & Use It Effectively
Guide to green water for medaka: benefits, three preparation methods, concentration management, and precautions.
Planted Tank Startup Schedule — Day 1 to Stability
Step-by-step planted tank startup schedule from day one to stable ecosystem, covering nutrient leaching, bacteria colonization, and plant establishment.
Growing Nepenthes Without a Greenhouse — Indoor Pitcher Formation
Growing Nepenthes indoors without a greenhouse: pitcher formation tips, humidity solutions, species selection, and winter care.
Aquatic Plant Dry Start Method Guide — Growing a Carpet Before Flooding
Setting up an aquatic plant tank using the dry start (mist) method: step-by-step carpet growing before flooding, suitable species, and maintenance tips.