Neon Green Octospawn

The Neon Green Octospawn Coral is a stunning LPS (large-polyp stony) coral, known for its long, flowing tentacles that resemble a mix between a frogspawn and a hammer coral. Unlike traditional Frogspawn corals, Octospawn has thinner, more delicate tentacles that create a mesmerizing waving motion in the water. Its intense neon green coloration makes it a standout piece in any reef tank, especially under actinic blue lighting. Native to Indo-Pacific reefs, it is a moderate grower and relatively easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for reef aquarists of all levels.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons, but thrives in 50+ gallons for better stability and growth.
• Temperament: Moderate aggression – extends sweeper tentacles at night, so ensure at least 3-5 inches of space from neighboring corals.
• Lighting: Moderate (PAR 100-200); too much light can cause bleaching, while too little may result in stunted growth and faded colors.
• Flow: Moderate – prefers gentle, indirect flow to allow its tentacles to sway naturally without excessive movement that could cause retraction.
• Placement:
  • Best placed on lower to mid rockwork or the sandbed, ensuring it has room to expand.
  • Avoid placing it in areas with direct high flow, as strong currents can damage its delicate tentacles.
• Feeding:
  • Carnivorous – benefits from target feeding 1-2 times per week with:
    • Mysis shrimp
    • Brine shrimp
    • Reef-specific coral foods (powdered or liquid)
  • Gains additional nutrients from photosynthesis via its zooxanthellae.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74-78°F (23-26°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.024-1.026
  • Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
  • Calcium: 400-450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
  • Nitrate & Phosphate: Low but detectable (NO₃: 5-10 ppm, PO₄: 0.03-0.07 ppm) – excess nutrients can lead to algae overgrowth, while too little may slow growth.

Compatibility:

• Moderate aggression, but can be kept with other Euphyllia corals (Hammers, Torches, Frogspawns) if space is provided.
• Should be placed away from delicate corals, as it extends sweeper tentacles at night.
• Avoid placement near aggressive corals like Galaxea, Hydnophora, or Acropora colonies.

Special Considerations:

• Fragging: Can be fragged by carefully separating its branching heads, allowing for easy propagation.
• Flowing Motion: The soft, waving tentacles provide a mesmerizing movement, making it a focal point in any reef tank.
• Color Enhancement: Actinic blue lighting (450-470nm spectrum) enhances the neon green fluorescence, giving it an electric glow.

Summary:

The Neon Green Octospawn Coral is a vibrant, flowing, and moderately aggressive LPS coral, perfect for adding movement and bright color to reef aquariums. With stable water conditions, moderate lighting, and careful placement, it will thrive and become a visually stunning showpiece in any reef tank.