CoralSaltwaterIntermediate

Cylindrical Finger Coral

Porites cylindrica

Also known as: cylindrical porous coral

A smooth-branching reef builder that can dominate entire lagoon zones.

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About

Cylindrical finger coral (Porites cylindrica) is one of those workhorses of the Indo-Pacific reef that doesn't get nearly enough credit in the hobby. In the wild, it can form dense stands across lagoons and back reef margins, sometimes covering vast stretches of seafloor in branching thickets. The colony structure is typically branching, often growing from an encrusting base, and the individual corallites are so shallow that the branch surfaces look almost smooth and polished compared to many other Porites relatives. Coloration ranges across cream, yellow, soft blue, and green, so individuals can vary quite a bit depending on origin and lighting conditions. In a home reef, this coral rewards keepers who get flow and light dialed in. It wants solid water movement and high intensity illumination to really settle in and color up. Care is rated intermediate, mostly because Porites in general are sensitive to shifts in water quality and don't bounce back from neglect as quickly as some hardier SPS. That said, a well-established system with consistent parameters suits this coral well. It's not a beginner coral, but an experienced reefer looking to add a natural, branching SPS texture to their aquascape will find it a genuinely rewarding long-term project.

At a glance

Type: Coral
Water: Saltwater
Origin: May be a dominant species in lagoons or on back reef margins.
Reef safe: Yes
Lighting: High
Flow: moderate

Care guide

Position in moderate to strong flow zones where branches receive consistent water movement without being blasted directly. Provide high-intensity lighting, as inadequate PAR will lead to tissue recession and poor coloration. Place on stable rockwork away from aggressive corals, as Porites is susceptible to coral warfare. Monitor water quality closely. This genus is sensitive to fluctuations in salinity, alkalinity, and nutrient levels. Feed occasionally with fine particulate foods during low-flow periods. Avoid copper-based treatments entirely. If tips begin receding or polyps fail to extend, suspect declining water quality or insufficient light rather than disease.

Breeding

Porites cylindrica is a broadcast spawner that reproduces sexually on synchronized spawning events tied to lunar cycles and water temperature. Captive reproduction is rare and difficult without precise environmental triggers. Fragmentation is the practical propagation method. Carefully cut healthy branches with a wet saw and secure fragments to rubble or tiles using epoxy. Place frags in high-flow, high-light areas and expect slow but steady growth over months. Maintain stable water parameters during recovery to maximize survival rates.