Description
Euphyllia paradivisa, commonly known as the Branching Frogspawn Coral, is a species of Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral belonging to the Euphylliidae family.
This coral shares the common name "Frogspawn Coral" with Euphyllia divisa, but the two species can be distinguished by their skeletal structure:
-
Euphyllia paradivisa (Branching Frogspawn) has a branching skeleton, with each coral head growing on its own distinct branch.
-
Euphyllia divisa (Wall Frogspawn) has a continuous wall-like skeleton rather than separate branches.
The branching growth form makes Euphyllia paradivisa easier to frag and propagate compared to wall-type frogspawn corals.
Branching Frogspawn Coral is highly prized in reef aquariums for its flowing movement and attractive coloration, which may include shades of green, purple, pink, gold, and bi-color combinations. Its tentacles resemble clusters of frog eggs, which is the origin of its common name.
Care Requirements
-
Lighting: Moderate to moderately high
-
Water Flow: Moderate, indirect, and turbulent
-
Placement: Typically middle to lower areas of the aquarium
-
Care Level: Easy to moderate
-
Reef Safe: Yes
Important Notes
Branching Frogspawn Coral possesses stinging sweeper tentacles that can extend beyond the colony and damage nearby corals. Adequate spacing should be provided between it and other coral species.
Feeding
Although it relies primarily on photosynthesis through its symbiotic zooxanthellae algae, it benefits from supplemental feeding, including:
Regular feeding can promote faster growth, larger polyp extension, and enhanced coloration.
