Source: Wikimedia Commons
Sun Coral
AdvancedTubastraea sp.
Vivid orange non-photosynthetic coral. Grown entirely through feeding. Stunning full polyp extension at night.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
22〜27℃
Lifespan
10+ years with proper care
Diet
Mysis/brine shrimp (daily or every other day feeding)
About
Sun coral (genus Tubastraea, family Dendrophylliidae) is an azooxanthellate cup coral containing no symbiotic algae and therefore deriving all nutrition from active predation rather than photosynthesis. Its brilliant orange, yellow, or black polyps open like flowers to capture plankton, making it one of the most visually striking corals for shaded tank positions where photosynthetic corals cannot thrive. Native to reef walls and slopes of the Indo-Pacific, it often colonizes overhangs and cave ceilings. Successful husbandry demands frequent target feeding (three to five times weekly) with brine shrimp, mysis, or plankton, pausing flow to allow polyp extension during meals.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
reef walls, slopes, and cave ceilings of the Indo-Pacific
Lifespan
10+ years with proper care
Temperature
22〜27℃
Diet
Mysis/brine shrimp (daily or every other day feeding)
Care Guide
Lighting
Not needed (non-photosynthetic)
Flow
Moderate
Feeding
Daily or every other day feeding required. Labor-intensive
Placement
Shaded areas or under overhangs
Notes
Neglecting feeding causes decline and death
Non-photosyntheticOrangeFeeding essentialAdvanced
Sun Coral FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Sun Coral?
A
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Sun Coral?
A
The ideal temperature for Sun Coral is 22〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Sun Coral?
A
The average lifespan of Sun Coral is 10+ years with proper care. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Sun Coral Q&A
Find listings for this species
