Psammocora stellata (Cactus Coral) Propagation Guide

Propagating the branching SPS Psammocora stellata by cutting and gluing branch fragments, with notes on the genus and the conditions a frag needs to encrust and regrow.

Overview

Psammocora stellata is a stony coral in the monotypic family Psammocoridae, a genus established by Dana in 1846 and known commonly as cat's paw coral. In the aquarium it grows as a branching small-polyp stony coral with a finely textured, granular surface. Its hardiness makes it a frequent stand-in for the more demanding branching SPS corals.

Reproductive Mode

As a branching stony coral, Psammocora stellata is propagated in captivity chiefly by fragmentation, the same asexual route that lets detached coral pieces re-establish on a reef. Cutting a branch yields a genetically identical clone of the parent colony, preserving its colour and texture.

Fragging / Asexual Propagation

Cut a branch from a healthy colony with coral cutters, then mount the fragment on a frag plug or rock. Dry the base of the cutting and the plug so the glue holds, add a couple of dabs of cyanoacrylate, press the frag into place, and return it to low flow until the bond cures. The frag then encrusts the plug and resumes branching growth.

Conditions for Propagation

A stellata frag needs stable reef parameters, moderate to high light, and good water movement to keep the granular surface clean and the polyps extended. Frags taken from vigorous colonies attach and encrust fastest; brisk flow over the cut helps the tissue heal onto the plug and discourages algae.

Common Challenges

The fine, sandy surface texture can make early tissue loss hard to see, so inspect new frags closely. Maintaining clean, consistent water and adequate flow are the main factors in a smooth recovery for this hardy SPS.