Kenya Tree Coral (Capnella spp.)

Taxonomy & Identity

Kenya Tree Coral is one of the hardiest and most prolific soft corals in the hobby. Named for its tree-like branching structure, it grows rapidly and reproduces freely, often to the point of becoming a nuisance. For beginners wanting a nearly indestructible coral, Kenya Trees are an excellent choice—just be prepared for their enthusiasm.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

Capnella species are found throughout the Indo-Pacific, particularly around Kenya and East Africa (hence the common name). They inhabit various reef environments from shallow lagoons to deeper slopes. Their adaptability to different conditions is reflected in their aquarium hardiness.

Morphology & Growth Forms

Kenya Trees grow as branching colonies with a thick trunk and multiple branches ending in feathery polyps. The structure resembles a miniature tree or broccoli. Colonies can grow quite large and often lean or droop. Colors are typically brown, pink, or green, with polyps that can retract when disturbed.

Lighting Requirements & Spectrum

• Intensity: Low to high (extremely adaptable)
• Target PAR: 50–300

Kenya Trees are remarkably adaptable to lighting conditions. They survive under minimal light and tolerate intense illumination. This flexibility makes placement easy—they'll grow virtually anywhere in the tank. Coloration may vary somewhat with lighting intensity.

Flow Requirements & Patterns

• Intensity: Low to moderate
• Type: Any pattern

Moderate flow helps keep the colony healthy and prevents detritus accumulation. Kenya Trees tolerate various flow conditions but may lean away from strong direct currents. They're not particular about flow patterns and adapt to most situations.

Nutrient Dynamics & Water Chemistry

Kenya Trees are nearly bulletproof regarding water parameters. They thrive in conditions that would stress most corals and often grow faster in nutrient-rich systems. If your Kenya Tree isn't growing, something is seriously wrong with your tank.

Feeding Biology & Symbiosis

Kenya Trees contain zooxanthellae and are primarily photosynthetic. They can capture fine particulate matter but don't require feeding.

• Primarily photosynthetic
• Captures fine particulates
• No feeding required
• Benefits from fish waste

Direct feeding is unnecessary—Kenya Trees derive all needed nutrition from light and dissolved organics. They often grow too fast without any supplemental feeding.

Common Diseases, Pests & Predators

• Essentially disease-free
• Very few pests affect them
• May be eaten by some sea slugs
• Occasional predation by certain fish

Kenya Trees are remarkably resistant to disease and pests. Their main "problem" is excessive growth and reproduction rather than health issues. If stressed, they may drop branches—which then grow into new colonies.

Compatibility & Placement

Kenya Trees release terpenes and other chemicals that can affect sensitive corals, particularly SPS. They spread aggressively through dropping branches. Running activated carbon helps mitigate chemical warfare. Containment is often necessary.

• Best zone: Anywhere (adaptable)
• Give space: Will spread regardless
• Warning: Can become invasive
• Tip: Keep on isolated rock if possible

Fragging Techniques

Kenya Trees don't need fragging—they do it themselves by dropping branches. These dropped pieces attach and grow into new colonies. To intentionally frag, simply cut a branch and place it where desired. They can even be wedged into rock crevices until they attach naturally.

Aquacultured Strains & Trade Names

Standard brown and pink varieties are most common. Some "Green Kenya Tree" specimens are occasionally available. Most in the hobby are aquacultured—often given away free by hobbyists trying to control their populations. Rarely sold at high prices due to their prolific nature.

Difficulty Rating & Summary

Difficulty: Beginner

Kenya Tree Coral is among the easiest corals to keep alive—the challenge is often controlling its spread rather than keeping it healthy. Perfect for absolute beginners or tanks where nothing else survives. Just be aware that it may eventually require management to prevent it from taking over your reef.