
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Tubipora musica
Unique coral with green polyps emerging from red skeleton. Appears soft but actually has a hard skeleton.
Organ pipe coral (Tubipora musica) is a unique octocoral that builds a bright red calcium carbonate skeleton of parallel tubes resembling a pipe organ—unusual among soft corals. Native to shallow reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, living colonies appear green, blue, or purple as the skeletal tubes are concealed by expanded polyps bearing eight feathery tentacles. Colonies grow in dome shapes up to 3 m across. In aquaria, moderate lighting (150–250 PAR) and gentle to moderate flow are optimal; turbulent currents cause polyp retraction. Its striking appearance has driven heavy collection pressure for both aquaria and the souvenir trade, highlighting the importance of sustainable sourcing.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Pipe Organ Coral lives 10+ years with proper care.
The Pipe Organ Coral grows to 5-20cm.
The ideal temperature for the Pipe Organ Coral is 24〜27℃.
Origin
shallow reefs of the Indian Ocean and western and central Pacific Ocean
Lifespan
10+ years with proper care
Size
Sources: AlgaeBarn: SPS/LPS/soft care / AlgaeBarn: Water Parameters 101
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Organ pipe coral family (Tubipora musica, Tubiporidae) = octocorallian but CITES-listed family → Appendix II.
Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (Tubiporidae spp. = App. II)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
5-20cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis + liquid food
Prefers moderate lighting (150-250 PAR). Place it mid-tank under steady light so the polyps open and cover the skeleton.
Provide low to moderate flow. Turbulent, chaotic flow makes the polyps retract, so place it where the current is gentle and steady in direction.
Keep the water stable at 24-27C. Calcium supplementation is recommended for building its calcareous skeleton, and stable water quality is required.
It relies mainly on photosynthesis, but liquid food helps. Feed small amounts while the polyps are open.
Sensitive to water changes — acclimate carefully
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Pipe Organ Coral is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Pipe Organ Coral is 10+ years with proper care. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Pipe Organ Coral typically reaches 5-20cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Pipe Organ Coral feeds on: Photosynthesis + liquid food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Pipe Organ Coral varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026