Thin Fingers Coral
Porites divaricata
Also known as: thin finger coral
A Caribbean finger coral that keeps its tentacles out even in broad daylight.
About
Thin fingers coral (Porites divaricata) is a branching stony coral native to the Caribbean, where it grows across a surprisingly wide depth range from the shallows right down to around 47 meters. In the wild it favors calm, protected reef environments and is particularly associated with seagrass beds. A habitat not many hard corals call home. The colony form is distinctive: slim, fused branches with somewhat flattened tips give it a more delicate look than the chunky mounding Porites most people picture. Up close, the surface feels rough due to deeply pitted corallites set in a coarse texture between them. Coloration runs toward muted grey-brown or a soft greenish-yellow, so this isn't a coral you keep for bold color. Its appeal is more about form and behavior. That behavior is one of its more interesting traits: the polyps tend to stay extended through the daytime rather than waiting for nightfall, which gives the colony a fuzzy, almost soft appearance and makes it noticeably lively during the day. In the aquarium it falls into the intermediate care bracket, appreciating good light and moderate water movement. It's an honest choice for a reef keeper wanting a piece of authentic Caribbean character.
Similar species
Other coral you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Thin Fingers Coral
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- What water parameters does the Thin Fingers Coral need?
- The Thin Fingers Coral does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 8–8.4.
- What does the Thin Fingers Coral eat?
- The Thin Fingers Coral is a filter feeder. It eats tiny particles suspended in the water and usually needs target feeding in a home tank.
- Is the Thin Fingers Coral reef safe?
- The Thin Fingers Coral is generally considered reef safe.