Neon Green Trumpet Coral

The Neon Green Trumpet Coral, also known as Candy Cane Coral, is a popular and beginner-friendly LPS (large-polyp stony) coral, beloved for its bright neon green polyps that glow intensely under actinic blue lighting. Its trumpet-shaped polyps cluster together, forming a branching structure that creates depth and dimension in reef aquariums. Known for its hardiness, ease of care, and vibrant color, it’s a staple coral suitable for both new and experienced aquarists.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons, but thrives in 30+ gallons for stability and growth.
• Temperament: Peaceful, but can extend short feeding tentacles at night. Provide 2-3 inches of space from other corals.
• Lighting: Moderate (PAR 75-150); avoid intense light to prevent bleaching, yet ensure enough for healthy growth and vibrant coloration.
• Flow: Moderate – gentle flow encourages full polyp extension and prevents detritus accumulation.
• Placement:
  • Best placed on lower to mid rockwork or sandbed, allowing room for branching growth.
  • Avoid strong direct flow to prevent polyp retraction.
• Feeding:
  • Carnivorous – benefits from target feeding 1-2 times per week with:
    • Mysis shrimp
    • Brine shrimp
    • Powdered coral foods (e.g., Reef Roids)
  • Gains additional nutrients via photosynthesis from zooxanthellae.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74-78°F (23-26°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.025-1.026
  • Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH (stable)
  • Calcium: 400-450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1300-1350 ppm
  • Nitrate & Phosphate: Low but detectable (NO₃: 5-10 ppm, PO₄: 0.03-0.07 ppm)

Compatibility:

• Very peaceful, suitable near other LPS or soft corals.
• Can be placed near similar corals like Blastos, Acans, or other Candy Canes.
• Avoid placement near aggressive corals like Euphyllia (Hammers, Torches) or Galaxea, which have long sweeper tentacles.

Special Considerations:

• Fragging: Easy to propagate by cutting between branching polyps.
• Coloration Enhancement: Fluorescent green color is best under blue-dominant LED lighting, making it a standout in reef tanks.
• Nighttime Behavior: May extend feeding tentacles at night but is generally non-aggressive.

Summary:

The Neon Green Trumpet Coral is a hardy, easy-to-care-for, and visually appealing coral, ideal for adding vivid neon green color and unique structure to reef tanks. With stable water conditions, moderate lighting, and occasional feeding, it will thrive and develop into a beautiful, branching colony, perfect for reef keepers of all experience levels.