Net Coral
Alveopora viridis
A delicate column-forming coral that rewards patient, skilled reefers.
About
Net Coral (Alveopora viridis) is one of the less commonly encountered members of its genus in the hobby, and the source data makes clear why it belongs in experienced hands rather than a beginner's first reef tank. In the wild, this species comes from the Indo-West Pacific, where it settles on lower reef slopes that receive good water movement but are sheltered from heavy wave action. Growth form ranges from submassive mounds to occasional columns, giving mature colonies a chunky, architectural presence. The individual corallites are notably small, comparable in scale to Porites, and carry septal spines of two distinct lengths, a detail that helps distinguish it from related Alveopora species when identification matters. Coloration tends toward grey-brown or greenish-brown, so this isn't a coral people keep for vivid pigmentation. What draws attention instead is the soft, flowing texture of the extended polyps, which gives the colony an almost anemone-like appearance when feeding. Like other Alveopora, it demands very high light and strong flow to thrive long-term, and its sensitivity to water quality and parameter swings puts it firmly in the advanced category. This is a coral for reefers who already have stable, mature systems and understand the patience the genus requires.
Similar species
Other coral you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Net Coral
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- What water parameters does the Net Coral need?
- The Net Coral does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 8–8.4.
- What does the Net Coral eat?
- The Net Coral is a filter feeder. It eats tiny particles suspended in the water and usually needs target feeding in a home tank.
- Is the Net Coral reef safe?
- The Net Coral is generally considered reef safe.