Stylophora (Stylophora pistillata) Care Guide

A branching SPS coral with thick, rounded branch tips resembling a cat's paw. One of the faster-growing SPS corals and more forgiving than Acropora. Comes in pink, green, and purple color morphs.

Overview

Stylophora pistillata is a species in the family Pocilloporidae. A branching SPS coral with thick, rounded branch tips resembling a cat's paw. One of the faster-growing SPS corals and more forgiving than Acropora. Comes in pink, green, and purple color morphs. Good flow and lighting needed but tolerates more variation.

Taxonomy

Family: Pocilloporidae
Genus: Stylophora
Scientific name: Stylophora pistillata
Other names: Cat's Paw Coral
Origin: Indo-Pacific

Habitat

Stylophora pistillata is a branching small-polyp stony coral widespread on Indo-Pacific reefs and a common subject of reef research. It hosts symbiotic algae, prefers strong light and flow, and is hardier than many other SPS corals.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 100 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
KH: 8-12 dKH
Water flow: strong
Adult size: 5-25 cm
Lifespan: 10-40 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as herbivore. Recommended feeding frequency: photosynthetic. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Position in tank: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Small Reef Fish, Wrasses
Avoid with: Coral Nippers

Reef compatibility

Generally classified as reef-safe: does not feed on stony or soft corals, tridacnid clams or ornamental shrimps under normal conditions.