Coral species · Flowerpot Coral

Goniopora spp.

Long, flower-like polyps that sway in the current: a spectacular coral for well-established reefs.

Overview

Goniopora is known for long polyps topped with a ring of 24 tentacles, giving each polyp the look of a small flower. A fully extended colony is one of the most eye-catching sights in a reef aquarium.

Once considered difficult, Goniopora is now kept more successfully thanks to better understanding of its needs, and Australian pieces are sought after for their colour and condition.

Appearance and colour

Colours include greens, reds, pinks and creams, often with contrasting oral discs. Polyp length varies between species, from short and compact to long and flowing.

Care in the aquarium

Goniopora suits a mature, stable system. Moderate to high light, moderate alternating flow and access to fine particulate foods are key, as is avoiding very low nutrient levels. Many hobbyists place it on or near the sand bed. Acclimate it gradually and keep parameters steady for the best long-term results.

At a glance

Flowerpot Coral

Type LPS (large polyp stony)
Also known as Flowerpot coral, Goniopora
Lighting Moderate to high
Water flow Moderate, alternating
Placement Sand bed or lower to middle reef
Feeding Fine particulate and planktonic foods
Care level Advanced
Temperament Peaceful

Every coral is unique. Photos are representative of the species; each colony varies in shape, size and colour.

Responsibly sourced

How we source Goniopora spp.

Our corals are collected on the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, from the northern areas of the Reef down to Bundaberg, our home. Our diving collection vessels are equipped for long-distance travel, so we can find the best corals and keep them in pristine condition on the way to our holding facility.

Jeremy leads our harvesting team, which is extensively trained in safe, sustainable collecting techniques. We work to a strictly limited quota across broad reef areas within specific zones, taking small numbers of corals of limited size and premium quality and leaving the majority of the coral intact.

At our Bundaberg holding facility, Travis and the team fine-tune feeding, lighting and husbandry so every coral is in top condition before it is carefully packed and shipped. Our growing aquaculture program supports our vision of offering a 100% aquacultured source of premium corals.

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Limited, selective harvest

A strictly limited quota, taken from broad reef areas in specific zones. Small numbers, limited sizes and premium quality.

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Stewardship and certification

We participate in Provision Reef, an industry stewardship program, and maintain CITES certification for responsible sourcing.

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Towards 100% aquacultured

Our growing aquaculture program in Bundaberg supports our vision of a fully aquacultured source of premium corals.

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