Red Goniopora Coral

Red Goniopora Coral​​​​​​​

Common Names

• Red Goniopora
• Flower Pot Coral
• Red Flower Pot Coral
• Daisy Coral

 

Identification

• Scientific Name: Goniopora spp.
• Origin: Indo-Pacific Region
• Size: Typically sold as a frag or small colony measuring 1–3 inches

 

Red Goniopora Corals are highly sought-after large polyp stony (LPS) corals known for their long, flowing polyps and vibrant red coloration. When fully extended, their numerous flower-like tentacles create mesmerizing movement in the aquarium, making them a stunning centerpiece in reef systems.

 

Behavior & Role in a Reef Tank

Red Goniopora corals add exceptional movement and color to reef aquariums. Their polyps extend throughout the day, swaying gracefully in the current. Modern aquaculture and improved husbandry have made Goniopora significantly easier to maintain than they were in the past, though they still benefit from stable water parameters and regular feeding.

 

Compatibility & Caution

• Generally peaceful but should be given adequate space from neighboring corals.
• Long polyps can be damaged by aggressive tank mates or excessive flow.
• Sensitive to sudden changes in alkalinity and water quality.
• Best placed away from corals with long sweeper tentacles.

 

Care Level

Moderate

Recommended Water Parameters

• Temperature: 76–78°F (24–26°C)
• Salinity: 1.025–1.026 SG
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH
• Calcium: 420–450 ppm
• Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
• Nitrate: 5–20 ppm
• Phosphate: 0.03–0.10 ppm
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

 

Placement

• Lower to middle areas of the aquarium.
• Leave several inches of space around the colony to allow full polyp extension.

 

Lighting

• Moderate lighting (80–150 PAR)

 

Water Flow

• Low to Moderate, indirect flow.

Strong direct flow can prevent the polyps from extending fully, while gentle, random flow helps keep the coral clean and healthy.

 

Diet

Although largely photosynthetic, Red Goniopora benefit greatly from supplemental feeding. Suitable foods include:

• Reef roids and powdered coral foods
• Phytoplankton
• Zooplankton
• Amino acid supplements
• Fine frozen foods

 

Target or broadcast feeding 2–3 times per week can help promote growth and vibrant coloration.

 

Tank Mates

Compatible with:

• Most reef-safe fish
• Zoanthids
• Euphyllia corals (with proper spacing)
• Mushrooms
• Other peaceful LPS and soft corals

 

Avoid:

• Butterflyfish
• Angelfish known to nip corals
• Aggressive corals with long sweeper tentacles

 

Fun Fact

The name "Flower Pot Coral" comes from the appearance of its hundreds of flower-like polyps. A healthy Red Goniopora colony can extend its polyps several times the size of its skeleton, creating one of the most dramatic displays of movement in a reef aquarium.