
Source: Wikimedia Commons
A branching SPS coral. Hardier than Acropora with beautiful pink and purple coloration.
Stylophora pistillata (family Pocilloporidae) is one of the most widespread SPS corals on shallow Indo-Pacific and Red Sea reefs. Dense clusters of blunt-tipped finger branches form bushy colonies 10–30 cm across, coloring in pink, purple, green, cream, and brown—with vivid purple and pink morphs being the most prized in the aquarium trade. Moderate to high lighting (200–350 PAR) and brisk turbulent flow are required, as Stylophora is a high-energy reef flat species. This forgiving nature has earned it a place as the quintessential SPS starter coral worldwide. Fragging is simple: severed branches readily attach to new substrates and grow at a gratifyingly rapid pace. An essential addition to any SPS-dominated reef aquarium.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Stylophora lives 10+ years.
The Stylophora grows to 10-30cm.
The ideal water temperature for the Stylophora is 24〜27℃.
Water parameters (24–27°C, KH 8–9, Ca 400–430 ppm, Mg 1280–1350 ppm) should be kept stable, though Stylophora tolerates minor fluctuations better than Acropora.
Origin
shallow reef flats of the Indo-Pacific and Red Sea
Lifespan
10+ years
Sources: AlgaeBarn: SPS/LPS care (PAR/flow) / 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.
Stone Coral Order (Stylophora, Pocilloporidae). CITES Appendix II.
Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (Scleractinia spp. = App. II)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Size
10-30cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis
It needs moderate to strong lighting (200-350 PAR), similar to Acropora. Place it in a well-lit spot in the upper to middle tank.
It needs moderate to strong turbulent flow. Place it where current arrives from several directions so water does not stagnate among the dense branches.
Maintain 24-27C, KH 8-9, Ca 400-430 ppm and Mg 1280-1350 ppm. As with any SPS, stable parameter management is important.
It frags easily and cut branches attach quickly. Growth is fairly fast, so you can enjoy watching its shape change.
Tolerates water quality fluctuation better than Acropora
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Stylophora is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Stylophora is 10+ years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Stylophora typically reaches 10-30cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Stylophora feeds on: Photosynthesis. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Stylophora varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026