Flowery Carnation Coral
Duva florida
A soft, feathery Atlantic coral that works well for beginners dipping into reef keeping.
About
Flowery Carnation Coral (Duva florida) is a soft coral native to the subtropical waters of the western Atlantic, ranging along the coastlines of the United States and Canada. Like all members of its group, it is sessile. Anchored in place and drawing nutrients and plankton from the water column rather than hunting or roaming. Its common name hints at its appearance, with polyp clusters that fan outward in a soft, branching arrangement reminiscent of a flower head when fully extended. In the aquarium, it is considered a reasonable choice for hobbyists who are relatively new to reef keeping, though some experience with stable saltwater systems is always helpful before adding any coral. It does best under moderate lighting and moderate water flow, conditions that allow its polyps to expand comfortably without being battered or starved of light. Because it originates from subtropical rather than strictly tropical waters, this species has a slightly different comfort zone than many of the Indo-Pacific corals that dominate the hobby. Worth keeping in mind when planning tank mates and long-term husbandry. It is considered reef safe, posing no significant threat to other corals or invertebrates sharing its space.
Similar species
Other coral you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Flowery Carnation Coral
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- What does the Flowery Carnation Coral eat?
- The Flowery Carnation Coral is a filter feeder. It eats tiny particles suspended in the water and usually needs target feeding in a home tank.
- Is the Flowery Carnation Coral reef safe?
- The Flowery Carnation Coral is generally considered reef safe.