Green Nepthea coral

Green Nepthea Coral

Scientific Name: Nepthea sp.
Common Name: Green Nepthea
Coral Type: Soft Coral

 

Description

The Green Nepthea Coral is a striking soft coral known for its flowing, tree-like structure and vibrant green coloration. With long, flexible branches covered in fine polyps, this coral adds natural movement and a soft, waving presence to reef aquariums. Its rhythmic swaying in the current creates a calming, natural reef aesthetic, making it an excellent choice for both mixed reefs and soft-coral-dominant systems.

 

Growth & Form

Green Nepthea grows in an upright, branching form, often resembling a small underwater tree. It can grow relatively quickly in stable conditions and may develop multiple branches over time, forming a full and dramatic colony.

 

Coloration

• Bright to deep green branches

• Polyps may appear lighter or slightly fluorescent

• Color intensity improves under blue-heavy lighting
  Color can vary depending on lighting, nutrients, and flow.

 

Temperament

Peaceful, but like many soft corals, Nepthea can release allelopathic compounds that may irritate nearby corals. Adequate spacing and proper filtration (carbon) are recommended in mixed reef systems.

 

Tank Size

Best suited for medium to large reef aquariums, though it can thrive in smaller systems with good water quality and space to grow.

 

Placement

• Mid to high-level placement

• Requires open space to allow full extension

• Best positioned where it can gently sway in the current

 

Lighting Requirements

• Moderate lighting

• Thrives under LED, T5, or hybrid lighting

• Blue spectrum enhances coloration and polyp extension
  Gradual acclimation is advised to prevent stress.

 

Flow Requirements

• Moderate to strong, indirect flow

• Flow is essential to keep the coral healthy and free of debris

• Avoid harsh, direct flow that may cause tissue damage

 

Diet & Feeding

Green Nepthea is primarily photosynthetic but benefits from nutrient-rich water.

• Absorbs dissolved nutrients and organic matter

• Occasional broadcast feeding of phytoplankton or coral foods may support growth

 

Reef Compatibility

• Reef Safe: Yes

• Compatible with fish and most invertebrates

• Use caution in densely packed mixed reefs due to chemical warfare

 

Care Level

Moderate
Green Nepthea is relatively hardy but prefers stable parameters, good flow, and proper spacing to thrive long-term.

 

Fun Fact

Nepthea corals are known for periodically “sloughing off” a thin outer layer of tissue, which helps them remove algae and debris—this is normal behavior and a sign of a healthy coral.

 

Additional Notes

• Running activated carbon helps reduce chemical interactions

• May temporarily close during acclimation or shedding

• Excellent choice for adding movement and contrast to rigid SPS and LPS corals