Pocillopora (Cauliflower Coral)

Taxonomy & Identity

Pocillopora, commonly known as Cauliflower Coral or Brush Coral, is one of the hardiest and fastest-growing SPS corals available. Its bushy, densely branched colonies and extreme adaptability make it popular among hobbyists. Many Pocillopora even reproduce spontaneously by dropping branches that establish new colonies.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

Pocillopora species are found throughout tropical oceans worldwide, from the Indo-Pacific to the Eastern Pacific and Caribbean (different species). They're often pioneer species, colonizing new substrates quickly. They inhabit everything from turbulent reef crests to calmer lagoon environments.

Morphology & Growth Forms

Pocillopora form dense, bushy colonies with numerous short, knobby branches creating a cauliflower-like appearance. Branches are covered with small verrucae (bumps) and tiny embedded corallites. Polyps are small but extend prominently, giving colonies a fuzzy look. Colors include pink, green, brown, and purple varieties.

Lighting Requirements & Spectrum

• Intensity: Moderate to high
• Target PAR: 150–400

Pocillopora adapts readily to various lighting conditions. It can thrive under moderate light and tolerates high intensity well. Colors may vary with lighting—higher light often produces pinker coloration in some varieties. Very forgiving regarding light acclimation compared to Acropora.

Flow Requirements & Patterns

• Intensity: Moderate to high
• Type: Variable, turbulent

Good flow keeps the dense branches clean and delivers nutrients effectively. Pocillopora handles strong flow well and often thrives in high-energy areas of the tank. Variable, chaotic flow patterns work best. Insufficient flow can lead to detritus accumulation and tissue recession in the colony's interior.

Nutrient Dynamics & Water Chemistry

Pocillopora is remarkably tolerant of water parameter variations. It survives conditions that would kill most SPS corals and is often the last SPS standing when problems occur. This hardiness makes it excellent for newer SPS keepers or as an indicator species.

Feeding Biology & Symbiosis

Pocillopora contain zooxanthellae and are primarily photosynthetic. They can capture small particulate matter but don't require direct feeding.

• Phytoplankton (optional)
• Amino acids (optional)
• Fine coral foods (optional)
• Primarily photosynthetic

Feeding isn't critical for Pocillopora success but may enhance growth rates. They thrive primarily on photosynthesis and dissolved nutrients.

Common Diseases, Pests & Predators

• Generally very pest-resistant
• Can host commensal crabs (beneficial)
• May experience RTN under severe stress
• Less prone to flatworms than Acropora

Pocillopora is notably hardy regarding pests and disease. Many colonies host small Trapezia crabs that help keep the coral clean. Problems typically only occur under severe environmental stress.

Compatibility & Placement

Pocillopora is relatively peaceful but grows rapidly and can shade or crowd neighbors. It may spontaneously drop branches that establish elsewhere in the tank—this can be a feature or a nuisance depending on your goals.

• Best zone: Middle to upper tank
• Give space: 4+ inches; grows fast
• Note: May spread via branch dropping

Fragging Techniques

Pocillopora frags extremely easily—simply break or cut off branches. The coral often does this naturally. Frags establish quickly and begin growing almost immediately. Even very small fragments can survive and grow. Excellent for beginners to practice fragging techniques.

Aquacultured Strains & Trade Names

Common varieties include "Green Pocillopora," "Pink Pocillopora," "Rainbow Pocillopora," and various color morphs. Many are simply sold by color rather than specific trade names. Most available specimens are aquacultured and extremely hardy.

Difficulty Rating & Summary

Difficulty: Beginner (SPS)

Pocillopora is arguably the easiest SPS coral to keep successfully. Its incredible hardiness, rapid growth, and tolerance of variable conditions make it nearly foolproof. It's an ideal first SPS coral and remains popular even among experienced hobbyists for its reliability and attractive appearance.