Green Candy Cane Coral

The green trumpet coral, also known as **Caulastrea curvata** or **Candy Cane Coral**, is a popular choice among reef aquarium enthusiasts. It’s valued for its bright green coloration and relatively easy care. Here’s a detailed look at the green trumpet coral:

### Description
– **Appearance**: This coral has a distinctive tubular or trumpet-like shape with a bright green or neon green color. The polyps are typically large and fleshy, giving it a striking appearance under aquarium lighting.
– **Structure**: The green trumpet coral grows in clusters, with each polyp having its own distinct mouth. The polyps can inflate significantly during the day, making them quite eye-catching.

### Care Requirements
– **Lighting**: Moderate lighting is sufficient for green trumpet corals. They can thrive under both T5, LED, and metal halide lights.
– **Water Flow**: Moderate water flow is ideal. Too much flow can cause the polyps to retract, while too little can allow detritus to settle on the coral, potentially leading to health issues.
– **Water Parameters**: Maintaining stable water conditions is key to the health of green trumpet corals. Ideal parameters include:
– Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
– Salinity: 1.023-1.025 specific gravity
– pH: 8.1-8.4
– Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
– Calcium: 400-450 ppm
– Magnesium: 1200-1350 ppm

### Feeding
– **Diet**: While primarily photosynthetic, green trumpet corals can benefit from supplemental feeding. They can consume small meaty foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and specially formulated coral foods.
– **Frequency**: Feeding 1-2 times a week can enhance growth and color vibrancy.

### Placement in Aquarium
– **Position**: Place the coral in an area with moderate light and water flow. Ensure it is secure to avoid damage from being knocked over by tank inhabitants or water currents.
– **Spacing**: Provide adequate space between the trumpet coral and other corals to prevent aggression and allow for growth.

### Compatibility
– **Tankmates**: Green trumpet corals are generally peaceful and can be placed near other non-aggressive corals. They are compatible with a wide range of reef-safe fish and invertebrates.

### Propagation
– **Fragging**: Green trumpet corals can be easily propagated through fragging. Use a sharp tool to cut a branch or polyp cluster and secure it to a frag plug or rock in the aquarium.

By ensuring stable water conditions and providing appropriate lighting and feeding, green trumpet corals can thrive and become a vibrant addition to a reef aquarium.