
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Tubastraea sp.
Vivid orange non-photosynthetic coral. Grown entirely through feeding. Stunning full polyp extension at night.
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)
Origin
reef walls, slopes, and cave ceilings of the Indo-Pacific
Lifespan
10+ years with proper care
Temperature
22〜27℃
Mysis/brine shrimp (daily or every other day feeding)
Not needed (non-photosynthetic)
Moderate
Daily or every other day feeding required. Labor-intensive
Sources: AlgaeBarn: Water Parameters 101
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
イシサンゴ目(Tubastraea, Dendrophylliidae)。和名サンゴイソギンチャクは俗称だが学名はイシサンゴ目=CITES 附属書II。
Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (Scleractinia spp. = App. II)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Shaded areas or under overhangs
Neglecting feeding causes decline and death
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The ideal temperature for Sun Coral is 22〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
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 feeds on: Mysis/brine shrimp (daily or every other day feeding). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Sun Coral varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026