Lesser Knob Coral
Cyphastrea microphthalma
A shape-shifting Indo-Pacific coral that grows as boulders, plates, or free-rolling balls.
About
Lesser Knob Coral (Cyphastrea microphthalma) is a versatile reef-builder from the Indo-Pacific, found across a broad range of reef environments from shallow water down to around 25 meters. What makes this coral genuinely interesting is its growth plasticity. It can form rounded, boulder-like masses, develop into thin encrusting plates in lower-light zones, or even grow as free-rolling spherical coralliths that tumble loosely on sandy substrate. That last growth form is uncommon among corals and always draws a second look. The individual corallites are tall and conical, with typically ten primary septa, though spacing shifts noticeably depending on conditions. Tighter and more compact under stronger light, more spread out in encrusting forms. Coloration is usually brown, cream, or green, with the white septa providing some contrast against the coral tissue. In the aquarium, this species sits comfortably in the intermediate care bracket. It appreciates moderate light and flow, and its adaptability to different light levels in the wild suggests it can tolerate some variation in placement. Reefers looking for a hardy, architecturally interesting LPS coral that rewards observation without demanding expert-level husbandry will find this one worth considering.
Similar species
Other coral you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Lesser Knob Coral
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- What water parameters does the Lesser Knob Coral need?
- The Lesser Knob Coral does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 8–8.4.
- Is the Lesser Knob Coral reef safe?
- The Lesser Knob Coral is generally considered reef safe.