Propagating Pocillopora eydouxi (Antler Pocillopora)

Propagating the thick-branched SPS Pocillopora eydouxi: cutting branches and gluing to plugs, plus the genus brooding strategy and fragmentation.

Overview

Pocillopora eydouxi is a branching small-polyp stony coral of the family Pocilloporidae with thicker, antler-like branches than P. damicornis. Like other Pocillopora it is covered in wart-like verrucae, varies in colour with environment, and houses symbiotic zooxanthellae that supply energy through photosynthesis. The genus occurs across the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Reproductive Mode

Pocillopora are hermaphroditic: polyps bear both male and female reproductive organs. The genus broods larvae internally, releasing them when mature, and also reproduces asexually by fragmentation.

Fragging / Asexual Propagation

Branching Pocillopora frags very easily. Cut a branch with coral cutters and mount it on a plug; the sturdier branches of P. eydouxi tolerate handling well. Coral cutters are inexpensive and can be used inside the tank.

1. Cut a branch a few centimetres long with coral cutters.
2. Apply cyanoacrylate glue to a frag plug.
3. Seat the branch base, hold about 30 seconds, then return it to the tank.
4. Restore strong flow and light within a few hours.

Conditions for Propagation

This robust species favours high-flow zones. The Aquairi record targets medium-high light (about 200-350 PAR), high flow and 24-26 C, with a more mature tank (around six months) recommended before adding it.

Sexual Reproduction

In Pocillopora the larvae develop inside the polyps rather than free-floating; mature planulae are released and can drift for several weeks before settling. Long-distance dispersal is also aided by colonies attaching to floating objects.

Common Challenges

As a high-flow species, P. eydouxi can recede in stagnant areas. Pocillopora polyps extend tentacles at night to capture plankton, so feeding behaviour is nocturnal.