Net Coral

About

Net coral (Alveopora fenestrata) is a small-polyp stony coral from the shallow reef environments of the Western Central Pacific, typically found at depths of just one to nine meters where light and water movement are both intense. Colonies grow into rounded, dome-like forms that sometimes develop irregular lobes across the surface, giving mature specimens a sculptural, organic quality. Up close, each corallite has walls built from compacted rods and spines, and the septa inside are composed of tapered spines that connect near the base. The polyps themselves are notably elongated, with long, tapering tentacles that give the whole colony a ragged, almost shaggy texture when fully extended. Particularly appealing in a strong current. Coloration tends toward grey or greenish-brown, occasionally with pale white oral cones at the center of each polyp. In the aquarium, this species demands conditions that closely mirror its natural habitat: very intense lighting and vigorous flow are non-negotiable. It is firmly in the advanced category. Not a coral that forgives inconsistent water quality or weak husbandry. Experienced reef keepers who can maintain stable, high-energy conditions will find it a genuinely interesting addition to a mature, well-established system.