Pink Gonipora Coral Frag

Pink Goniopora Coral Frag

Common Name

Pink Goniopora, Flowerpot Coral

Scientific Name

Goniopora sp.

Origin

Indo-Pacific (commonly Australia & Indonesia)

Growth Form

Goniopora features long, flowing polyps extending from a stony skeleton. Each polyp typically displays 24 tentacles, giving it a soft, flower-like appearance. When healthy, polyps can extend several inches beyond the skeleton.

Coloration

This variety displays soft to vibrant shades of pink, sometimes accented with lighter tips or contrasting oral discs. Color intensity is strongly influenced by lighting and nutrient availability.

Temperament

Peaceful but semi-aggressive due to long polyp extension. While it does not have strong sweepers, it requires ample space to avoid contact with neighboring corals.

Tank Size

Minimum 30 gallons, though larger systems are preferred for stability.

Placement

Best placed on the sand bed or lower rockwork, allowing space around the coral for full polyp extension.

Lighting

Low to Moderate lighting
PAR range: 80–150
Too much light may cause polyp retraction or bleaching.

Flow

Low to Moderate, indirect flow
Gentle, random flow helps keep polyps clean without causing stress or damage.

Diet & Feeding

Goniopora benefits greatly from regular feeding and is not fully photosynthetic.

Recommended foods include:

• Phytoplankton

• Fine coral powders

• Amino acids

• Micro-zooplankton

Target feeding 2–3 times per week is strongly recommended for long-term success.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–26°C (75–79°F)

• Salinity: 1.025–1.026

• Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH

• Calcium: 420–450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm

• Nitrate: 5–15 ppm

• Phosphate: 0.03–0.10 ppm

Stable nutrients are essential—ultra-low nutrient systems often cause decline.

Reef Compatibility

✔ Reef Safe
Compatible with most peaceful corals and reef-safe fish when given adequate spacing.

Care Level

Moderate to Advanced

Requires stable parameters, consistent feeding, and patience. Not recommended for newly established tanks.

Signs of Good Health

• Full daytime polyp extension

• Consistent feeding response

• Gradual tissue growth over skeleton

Signs of Stress

• Persistent polyp retraction

• Tissue recession

• Color fading or bleaching

Fun Fact 

Unlike many LPS corals, Goniopora were once considered nearly impossible to keep long-term, but modern reefing practices, better nutrient management, and targeted feeding have dramatically improved their survival and growth in home aquariums.