Ora Neon Green Birdsnest

The Neon Green Birdsnest Coral is a fast-growing SPS (small-polyp stony) coral, renowned for its striking neon green coloration and intricate, delicate branching structure. Under actinic lighting, it exhibits an intense fluorescent glow, making it a standout piece in any SPS-dominated reef tank. Known for its hardiness and rapid growth, it’s an excellent entry-level coral for aquarists interested in keeping SPS corals.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons, but thrives best in 30+ gallons for stability and growth.
• Temperament: Peaceful, but can shade other corals due to its rapid growth and branching form.
• Lighting: Moderate to high (PAR 200-350); intense lighting encourages vibrant color and dense branching.
• Flow: Moderate to high – strong, turbulent flow prevents detritus accumulation, promotes healthy growth, and enhances polyp extension.
• Placement:
  • Ideal on mid to upper rockwork, ensuring ample light and flow.
  • Allow sufficient space for outward growth, as it can quickly spread and shade nearby corals.
• Feeding:
  • Primarily relies on photosynthesis via zooxanthellae.
  • Benefits from occasional broadcast feeding with:
    • Reef amino acids
    • Phytoplankton
    • Powdered coral foods (e.g., Reef Roids)
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75-78°F (24-26°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.025-1.026
  • Alkalinity: 8-11 dKH (stability crucial)
  • Calcium: 420-450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1300-1350 ppm
  • Nitrate & Phosphate: Low but detectable (NO₃: 2-5 ppm, PO₄: 0.02-0.05 ppm)

Compatibility:

• Very peaceful, best kept in SPS-dominated tanks.
• Compatible with other SPS corals like Montipora, Acropora, or Pocillopora.
• Avoid proximity to aggressive LPS or soft corals with sweeper tentacles (e.g., Euphyllia, Galaxea).

Special Considerations:

• Fragging: Easily propagated by breaking off branches; frags grow quickly and establish easily.
• Coloration Enhancement: Neon green fluorescence intensifies under blue-dominant LED lighting.
• Growth Pattern: Rapid, intricate branching; requires regular pruning to prevent shading of nearby corals.

Summary:

The Neon Green Birdsnest Coral is a hardy, fast-growing, and visually striking SPS coral, perfect for adding bright color and complex structure to reef aquariums. With stable water conditions, moderate-to-high lighting, and strong flow, it thrives, making it an ideal coral for beginners stepping into the world of SPS corals, as well as experienced reef enthusiasts.