CoralSaltwaterBeginner

Green Clavularia

Clavularia viridis

Also known as: Clove Polyp, Green Polyp Coral

A hardy, low-light soft coral that spreads cheerfully across rock and substrate.

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About

Found along the Brazilian Atlantic coastline, Clavularia viridis is a mat-forming soft coral that belongs to the stoloniferan group. Corals that grow as individual polyps connected by a creeping mat of tissue rather than forming a fused colony. Each polyp extends from that shared base and expands into a feathery, eight-tentacled flower when conditions are comfortable, giving the colony a lush, almost grassy appearance across whatever surface it colonizes. The coloration tends toward greens and browns, often with a translucent quality that catches light nicely even in dimmer tanks. In the wild this species occurs in Brazilian waters on both sides of the equator, suggesting it tolerates a reasonable range of conditions. In the aquarium it lives up to its beginner-friendly reputation. It does not demand intense lighting or strong flow, and it will gradually spread across rockwork and open substrate on its own timeline. That spreading habit is something to plan for, as an established colony can slowly encroach on neighboring corals. Overall though, it is a genuinely forgiving coral that rewards patient, consistent husbandry without requiring the specialized attention that many other reef inhabitants demand.

At a glance

Type: Coral
Water: Saltwater
Origin: Brazilian part of the North Atlantic Ocean; Brazilian part of the South Atlantic Ocean
Reef safe: Yes
Lighting: Low
Flow: low

Care guide

Position on rockwork or substrate where it can spread without smothering neighbors. This coral expands gradually across available surfaces. Provide gentle indirect lighting and low flow; strong currents will stress the polyps. Feed occasionally with small particulates like phytoplankton or liquid invertebrate foods, though it derives nutrients from symbiotic zooxanthellae. Keep water quality stable with regular water changes. Monitor for algae overgrowth on the mat, which can impede expansion. Avoid copper-based treatments. This coral is low-maintenance but patient observation of its growth rate helps prevent it from overrunning nearby corals.

Breeding

Propagate by carefully cutting or dividing the creeping mat into sections, ensuring each fragment retains healthy tissue. Place divided pieces on rockwork or substrate in established tanks with stable conditions. Fragments typically attach within days to weeks and will slowly expand. Cuttings are more reliable than attempting sexual reproduction in captivity. Allow adequate spacing between fragments to minimize competition during recovery.