24K Gold Nugget Coral Frag
24K Gold Nugget Coral Frag
Species: Cyphastrea sp.
Growth Form: Encrusting coral with small, closely spaced corallites
Colouration: Bright golden-yellow to mustard tones with contrasting polyp centres
Temperament: Peaceful; generally non-aggressive
Tank Size: 15 gallons minimum
Placement: Lower to middle areas; allow room to encrust and spread
Lighting: Low to moderate
Flow: Moderate, indirect flow
Diet: Primarily photosynthetic; benefits from supplemental coral foods
Feeding: Fine coral foods, zooplankton, and finely minced marine foods
Reef Safe: Yes
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
24K Gold Nugget Coral Frag
Scientific Name: Cyphastrea sp. / Leptastrea sp. (commonly sold under the trade name “Gold Nugget Coral”)
Common Name: 24K Gold Nugget Coral, Gold Nugget Cyphastrea
Availability: Frag — availability and size may vary.
Identification
The 24K Gold Nugget Coral is a colourful encrusting LPS/SPS-like reef coral commonly sold under the Gold Nuggettrade name. It develops a low, encrusting growth pattern with small, closely spaced corallites. Under suitable reef lighting, the coral can develop an attractive golden-yellow to mustard coloration, often contrasted by darker corallite centres.
Behaviour & Role
This is generally a peaceful coral that slowly spreads across nearby rockwork as it encrusts. It does not typically develop long sweeper tentacles, making it a good choice for reef aquariums where space is limited. Allow adequate room around the frag for continued growth.
Compatibility & Caution
Generally reef safe and peaceful. It can be placed relatively close to other non-aggressive corals, although direct contact with neighbouring corals should still be avoided. Stronger-growing corals can eventually overgrow it.
Care Level
Easy to Moderate
- Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
- Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
- pH: 8.0–8.4
- Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH
- Calcium: 400–450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1250–1400 ppm
- Lighting: Low to moderate
- Flow: Moderate, indirect flow
- Placement: Lower to middle areas of the reef
- Diet: Primarily photosynthetic, but benefits from supplemental feeding
Feeding
While the coral obtains much of its energy through its symbiotic algae, occasional feeding of small coral foods, zooplankton, or finely minced marine foods can encourage growth and coloration. Feed when individual polyps are extended and reduce flow temporarily during feeding.
Tank Placement
Place the frag on a stable piece of live rock or a frag rack where it has room to encrust and spread horizontally. Avoid placing it directly underneath very intense lighting when first introduced. Gradually acclimate it to the aquarium's lighting conditions.
Fun Fact
The “24K Gold” name refers to the striking golden coloration this coral can develop under reef lighting. Its encrusting growth habit also makes it an excellent choice for adding bright colour to otherwise open areas of live rock.