Alveopora (Daisy Coral)

Taxonomy & Identity

Alveopora, commonly called Daisy Coral or Flowerpot Coral, is closely related to Goniopora but generally considered easier to keep. With 12 tentacles per polyp (versus 24 for Goniopora), they can be distinguished upon close inspection. Alveopora share the beautiful flowing polyps of their relatives with improved aquarium survivability.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

Alveopora species are found throughout the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea to the Central Pacific. They typically inhabit turbid lagoons, reef slopes, and protected areas with moderate light and flow. Like Goniopora, they often live in environments with elevated nutrient levels.

Morphology & Growth Forms

Alveopora grow as massive or encrusting colonies with long tubular polyps. Each polyp has 12 tentacles (a key distinguishing feature from Goniopora's 24). When extended, colonies display beautiful flowing masses of polyps. Colors include green, pink, cream, and brown, often with contrasting oral discs.

Lighting Requirements & Spectrum

• Intensity: Low to moderate
• Target PAR: 50–150

Alveopora prefer moderate lighting similar to Goniopora. They can bleach or fail to extend fully under intense illumination. Position in the lower to middle regions of the tank. Blue spectrum lighting enhances fluorescent colors present in many specimens.

Flow Requirements & Patterns

• Intensity: Low to moderate
• Type: Gentle, indirect

Gentle flow that allows polyps to sway without being battered is ideal. Strong direct currents prevent full extension and can damage tissue. The flowing polyps should move gracefully with the current. Position in protected areas away from powerhead output.

Nutrient Dynamics & Water Chemistry

Like Goniopora, Alveopora often do better with moderate nutrients rather than ultra-clean water. They're more tolerant than Goniopora but still benefit from stable parameters. Avoid dramatic swings in alkalinity or salinity.

Feeding Biology & Symbiosis

Alveopora contain zooxanthellae but benefit significantly from heterotrophic feeding. While less demanding than Goniopora, regular feeding improves long-term success.

• Phytoplankton and fine zooplankton
• Reef Roids and coral powders
• Amino acid supplements
• Oyster eggs

Feeding several times per week enhances health and coloration. Alveopora are less demanding feeders than Goniopora but still benefit from regular nutrition beyond photosynthesis alone.

Common Diseases, Pests & Predators

• Slow decline (less common than in Goniopora)
• Brown Jelly Disease if stressed
• Tissue recession from parameter issues
• Predation by certain fish

Alveopora are hardier than Goniopora and less prone to mysterious decline. Problems usually stem from inadequate feeding or environmental stress rather than unknown causes. Maintain stable conditions and regular feeding for best results.

Compatibility & Placement

Alveopora are relatively peaceful but need space for their extended polyps. They can be damaged by aggressive neighbors. Their flowing polyps may contact and be stung by more aggressive corals, so provide adequate clearance.

• Best zone: Lower to middle tank
• Give space: 4–5 inches accounting for polyp extension
• Protect from: Aggressive LPS with sweeper tentacles

Fragging Techniques

Alveopora can be fragged by cutting through the skeleton with a band saw. Each frag needs healthy tissue and adequate skeleton base. Fragging is best performed on thriving colonies. Allow extended healing time in stable conditions before moving to permanent placement.

Aquacultured Strains & Trade Names

Color varieties include "Green Alveopora," "Pink Alveopora," and various multi- colored specimens. Aquacultured specimens are increasingly available and tend to be hardier than wild-collected individuals. Look for healthy, well-extended specimens when purchasing.

Difficulty Rating & Summary

Difficulty: Intermediate

Alveopora offers the beautiful flowing polyps of Goniopora with better long-term survival rates. While still requiring attention to feeding and placement, they're more forgiving than their infamous relatives. For hobbyists wanting the "flowerpot" look without the extreme challenge, Alveopora is an excellent choice.