Pillar Coral
Dendrogyra cylindrus
Rare columns of living coral that keep their tentacles out around the clock.
About
Pillar coral (Dendrogyra cylindrus) is one of the most architecturally distinctive corals in the Western Atlantic, growing upright columns from a broad encrusting base that can reach nearly two metres tall on natural reefs. Unlike the low, domed, or branching forms that dominate most reef scapes, these tall cylinders give the coral an almost sculptural presence. The surface texture is equally unusual. Tentacles stay extended throughout the day rather than retracting to reveal bare skeleton, so a healthy colony has a soft, bristled appearance at all hours. Coloration runs to grey-brown tones, nothing flashy, but the form more than compensates. The wall structure is meandroid with alternating rows of septa that leave a clean groove running along the tops of the ridges. A subtle but useful identification feature when comparing it to other brain-type corals. In the wild it turns up across most reef environments in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. In captivity it is considered intermediate in difficulty. Not a beginner coral, but approachable for a keeper who already has a stable, well-established reef system with reliable water quality and consistent flow and lighting. This species is listed as threatened in the wild, so responsible sourcing from aquaculture is strongly encouraged.
Similar species
Other coral you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Pillar Coral
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- What does the Pillar Coral eat?
- The Pillar Coral is a filter feeder. It eats tiny particles suspended in the water and usually needs target feeding in a home tank.
- Is the Pillar Coral reef safe?
- The Pillar Coral is generally considered reef safe.