Green Birdsnest

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Moderate
• Coral Type: SPS (Small Polyp Stony)
• Lighting Requirement: Medium (150-250 PAR)
• Flow: Moderate to High
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Placement: Rockwork
• Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4" - 1"

Overview

The Green Birdsnest is a small polyp stony (SPS) coral with thin, branching growth and a bright green coloration. It has a somewhat fuzzy appearance due to its short polyps, and the tips often show a slightly lighter shade of green. Over time, it develops into a compact, bushy structure that adds variety to a mixed reef. While not the most difficult SPS to keep, it does best in stable systems with consistent lighting, flow, and water parameters.

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

This coral thrives in stable water conditions with regular water changes. Corals with a skeleton base, like this one, will consume calcium and alkalinity as they grow, often requiring additional supplementation. 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 medium light areas of the aquarium, ideally in the 150-250 PAR range. While it can handle slightly higher light, it's best to acclimate it gradually to avoid stress. 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 the rockwork where it will branch out. Position it where it has room to grow and access to steady flow.

Water Flow Requirements

Moderate to strong water flow is ideal. As it grows, the coral can develop into a dense, tightly-branched structure that makes it harder for flow to reach the inner areas. This can lead to issues over time. Occasional pruning can help maintain better flow throughout the colony, improve long-term health, and reduce the risk of the coral shading itself out as it matures.

Aggressiveness and Compatibility

While the Green Birdsnest isn't inherently aggressive, it can crowd nearby corals and shade those below as it grows.

Feeding and Nutrition

While this coral primarily relies on photosynthesis for energy, it can benefit from occasional additions of Amino Acids like CoralAmino. These supplemental feedings can support faster growth and better coloration.

Growth Rate and Pattern

This coral is a steady grower and has a branch-like growth pattern. The tips of the coral, where the most growth occurs, will often be a brighter green color than the rest of the coral.

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.