Green Bernardpora

Bernardpora are often referred to as a micro-goniopora or flower pot coral but have recently been delineated to their genus of Bernardpora. They have a skeleton with extending polyps that can recede and extend at their whim. They are considered to be an encrusting species.

It is often confused with Montipora or even Goniopora due to their short and stubby polyps yet they remain in their own separate genus. Their common name is “thorn coral” due to the look of the polyps and some worms that can host them.

OVERVIEW

• Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced

• Lighting: Moderate

• Flow: Low to Moderate

REQUIREMENTS AND CARE

• Lighting Requirements: Bernardpora are among our intermediary group when it comes to lighting. They tend to be happiest with moderate lighting but are more concerned with flow than light. As with many of the LPS corals, too much light can cause discoloration and receding polyps. As we’ve mentioned before, these coral can be trained for higher PAR, but if this is your wish we recommend doing it slowly as the potential for bleaching is high.

• Water Flow Needs: In terms of flow Bernardpora corals will need to be kept in a low - moderate flow area. Too much flow causes the polyps to stay receded close to the body. In turn, the coral will not get its proper nutrients as its filtration through the polyps will be decreased. Too little flow can cause detritus build up, and no flow to reach the bottom of the colony,potentially leading to tissue death.

• Placement in Tank: Position Bernardpora corals on the sandbed or lower regions of the aquarium, ensuring they have ample space to accommodate their growth and to prevent aggression towards neighboring corals.

• Feeding Habits: While primarily photosynthetic, Bernardpora corals benefit from supplemental feedings. Offering small meaty foods, such as brine shrimp or mysis shrimp, can promote faster growth and enhanced coloration.

• Aggressiveness: These corals can exhibit aggressive tendencies, especially during nighttime when their sweeper tentacles extend. It's crucial to provide sufficient space between them and other corals to prevent potential stinging incidents.

• Water Parameters: Maintaining stable water conditions is vital. Ideal parameters include a temperature range of 74° - 83° F (23° - 28° C), salinity between 1.023 - 1.025 specific gravity, calcium levels of 400 - 450 ppm, alkalinity between 8 - 11 dKH, magnesium levels of 1200 - 1350 ppm, and strontium levels of 8 - 10 ppm.