ECC Starlight Cespitularia

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Easy
• Coral Type: Soft Coral
• Lighting Requirement: Medium (150-250 PAR)
• Flow: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Placement: Rockwork
• Approximate Purchase Size: 1"

Overview

Starlight Cespitularia is a fast-growing soft coral with long, pinkish blue stalks and feathery polyps. Its branching structure and constant movement make it a popular choice for adding visual interest to a reef tank. It does well in stable conditions and is easy to care for, making it a great option for beginners and experienced reefers alike.

Note: This is not a WYSIWYG listing. Photo is a representation of the shape, size, and color of the coral you will receive.

Water Parameters

Corals thrive in stable water conditions with regular water changes. Routine water testing helps ensure these needs are consistently met.

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.025-1.026
• Temperature: 75-78 Degrees F
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-9.5 dKH
• Calcium: 400-450ppm
• Magnesium: 1300-1450ppm
• Nitrate (NO3): 10-25ppm
• Phosphate: 0.01-0.1ppm
• Nitrite (NO2): Undetectable
• Ammonia (NH3): Undetectable

Lighting Requirements

This coral prefers moderate light areas of the aquarium, ideally in the 150–250 PAR range. While it can adapt to a range of lighting conditions, gradual acclimation helps preserve its vivid coloration and supports healthy polyp extension.

For those with mixed reef tanks, a PAR meter is invaluable for fine-tuning light levels across different corals, helping ensure each coral gets the right intensity for its needs. This careful setup supports the coral’s vibrant color and long-term health.

Ideal Tank Placement

This coral is most often placed on rockwork with room to grow. Isolating it on a separate rock or island can help manage its spreading tendency.

Water Flow Requirements

Moderate flow is ideal. This keeps the polyps in gentle motion and helps prevent detritus from accumulating, supporting the coral’s natural appearance and health.

Aggressiveness and Compatibility

This coral is peaceful, however it should not be placed where it is in direct contact with neighboring corals. It can expand rapidly and compete for space, so give it room.

Feeding and Nutrition

This coral primarily relies on photosynthesis for energy, but occasional feedings with Amino Acids like CoralAmino can enhance its growth and coloration.

Growth Rate and Pattern

This coral is a fast grower and has a bushy, branching growth pattern. Its dense colonies of waving polyps can quickly cover rock surfaces, making it a popular choice for adding motion and texture to the reef.

Acclimation Process

Acclimation is essential for corals to adjust to their new environment. For a full step-by-step process, refer to our Coral Acclimation Guide.