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Coral Guide |  |
Family: Alcyoniidae (Octocorals)
Habitat: Back reefs, reef slopes, and reef flats
Light: High Water Flow: Medium Space: 10+ gal.
Reef Safe: Yes Care Level: Easy Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: The octocorals are generally polytrophic - getting nutrition from zooxanthellae (algae) in their tissues, nutrient uptake from the seawater, and feeding on microplankton.
Natural History: Cladiella is a common coral on most reefs. Colonies grow as short projections from thick stalks. Their polyps make them appear 'prickly' when extended. This coral genus is often very common on reefs. This group lacks chemical defenses that many other genera possess.
Husbandry: They are adaptable to most lighting and water flow conditions, but since they are collected in mid-water reef areas, moderate amounts of both are likely the best. They are nontoxic and are not generally harmful to other corals. Cladiella grows rapidly, up to 16 inches tall, and may have to be trimmed periodically.
AKA: Finger Leather Coral, Colt Coral