Broccoli Coral

About

Found on tropical reefs off New Caledonia in the Western Central Pacific, Litophyton arboreum is a soft coral whose common and scientific names are one and the same. So it's worth leading with what actually defines it: a distinctly arborescent, tree-like growth form that sets it apart from the fleshier, more compact soft corals many reef keepers are used to. Its branching silhouette gives it a sculptural quality in the aquarium, and in strong flow those branches become animated in a way that adds real movement to a reef display. Speaking of flow, this coral genuinely wants it. High, consistent water movement is one of the keys to keeping it happy, along with moderate lighting. It sits in the intermediate care bracket, meaning it's not an entry-level coral but shouldn't intimidate a keeper who has some experience managing water quality and flow in a reef system. It is considered reef safe, so tankmate compatibility is not a concern in the way it might be with some other sessile invertebrates. Source data on this species in the hobby is relatively limited, so patience and careful observation are worthwhile as you dial in conditions for it.