Lesser Star Coral
Goniastrea ramosa
A compact branching star coral that thrives on sheltered Indo-Pacific reef flats.
About
Lesser Star Coral (Goniastrea ramosa) is a small, branching stony coral native to the reef flats of the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the Philippines through to Indonesia. Unlike the massive, dome-shaped growth forms many people associate with star corals, this species forms irregular clusters of stubby branches that rarely exceed about 30 centimeters across, giving it a more textured, rugged appearance. The branch tips have a ragged quality, edged with projecting costae that give the skeleton a jagged, unfinished look up close. Individual corallites are angular with thick, rounded walls, septa arranged in two alternating orders with prominent teeth, and a neat crown of paliform lobes surrounding the compact columella. Coloration is understated. Typically a uniform cream or light brown, without the vivid hues of some reef-building corals. In the wild it favors sheltered reef flat environments away from heavy wave action, which is a useful clue when thinking about placement in the aquarium. Moderate flow and moderate lighting suit it well, and its intermediate care rating means it is best kept by someone already comfortable with the basic demands of a reef system. It is reef safe and poses no risk to tank mates.
Similar species
Other coral you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Lesser Star 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 Star Coral need?
- The Lesser Star Coral does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 8–8.4.
- Is the Lesser Star Coral reef safe?
- The Lesser Star Coral is generally considered reef safe.