Australian Duncan Coral Frag
Australian Duncan Coral
Species: Duncanopsammia axifuga
Growth Form: Branching LPS coral
Coloration: Neon green with contrasting purple, blue, or teal centers
Temperament: Peaceful
Tank Size: 20+ gallons
Placement: Lower to mid-level (rockwork or sandbed)
Lighting: Low to moderate
Flow: Low to moderate, indirect
Diet: Photosynthetic with supplemental feeding
Feeding: Mysis, brine, reef foods (1–2× weekly)
Reef Safe: Yes
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Australian Duncan Coral
Scientific Name: Duncanopsammia axifuga
Common Name: Australian Duncan, Duncan Coral
Origin: Australia (Indo-Pacific)
Description
The Australian Duncan Coral is a highly desirable LPS coral known for its large, fleshy polyps, long flowing tentacles, and excellent extension. Compared to standard Duncans, Australian specimens often display thicker stalks, brighter coloration, and stronger polyp inflation, making them a standout addition to reef aquariums. Their hardy nature and interactive feeding response make them a favorite among both beginners and experienced reef keepers.
Growth Form
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Branching LPS coral with individual, extendable polyps
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Grows by forming new heads from the base and along branches
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Can be fragged once well established
Coloration
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Neon green oral discs with contrasting purple, teal, or blue centers
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Tentacles often tipped with lighter or translucent hues
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Color intensifies under blue and actinic lighting
Temperament
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Peaceful
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Does not possess long sweeper tentacles
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Safe to place near other peaceful corals
Tank Size
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Minimum: 20 gallons
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Performs best in stable, established reef systems
Placement
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Lower to mid-level areas of the aquarium
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Can be placed on rockwork or directly on the sandbed
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Allow room for full polyp extension
Lighting
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Low to moderate
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Excessive light may cause retraction or fading
Flow
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Low to moderate, indirect
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Gentle movement encourages full extension
Diet
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Photosynthetic with supplemental feeding benefits
Feeding
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Feed 1–2 times per week
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Target feed mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, reef roids, or similar LPS foods
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Responds aggressively to feeding
Reef Safe
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Yes
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Safe with fish and most invertebrates
Care Level
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Easy to Moderate
Special Notes
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Excellent coral for observing feeding behavior
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Extends tentacles readily when food is detected
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Avoid direct, strong flow to prevent tissue damage
Fun Fact
Australian Duncan Corals are known to “wave” their long tentacles during feeding, making them one of the most animated and interactive LPS corals in the reef hobby.