Cup Coral

About

Found on reef-associated slopes in the subtropical waters around Hong Kong, Tubastraea dendroida is a non-photosynthetic cup coral occupying depths of roughly 10 to 25 meters in the Northwest Pacific. Like other members of its genus, it does not rely on zooxanthellae for energy, which means it gets no benefit from intense lighting and actually fares better under dim, indirect conditions. A trait that sets it apart from the majority of corals kept in reef tanks. Because it must be fed directly to thrive, it demands more attentive husbandry than a typical photosynthetic coral, placing it firmly in intermediate territory. Consistent target feeding with meaty foods is the cornerstone of keeping this animal healthy long-term. Moderate water movement helps deliver food particles and maintain oxygenation without hammering the polyps. Its subtropical origins hint at tolerance for a slightly broader temperature range than many Indo-Pacific species, though it still needs stable, clean water. This is a relatively obscure coral in the hobby, and detailed aquarium-specific data on it is limited, so keepers with prior experience maintaining non-photosynthetic corals will have the best foundation for success with it.