Seriatopora (Birdsnest Coral)

Taxonomy & Identity

Birdsnest coral gets its name from its delicate, needle-like branches that interweave to form structures resembling bird nests. This fast-growing SPS coral is one of the more forgiving species in its category, making it a good stepping stone between beginner SPS and more demanding Acropora.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

Seriatopora species are found throughout the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea to the Central Pacific. They inhabit various reef zones, often in areas with moderate to strong water movement. S. hystrix is particularly widespread and commonly available in the aquarium trade.

Morphology & Growth Forms

Birdsnest corals form intricately branched colonies with thin, pointed branches. The needle-like branches create dense, tangled structures. Polyps are tiny and embedded along the branches. Colors include pink, green, yellow, purple, and various pastels. Growth is rapid once established.

Lighting Requirements & Spectrum

• Intensity: Moderate to high
• Target PAR: 150–350

Seriatopora is adaptable to various lighting levels, handling both moderate and high PAR successfully. Colors may shift with lighting changes—some specimens develop better pink coloration under higher light. Less demanding than Acropora regarding light acclimation.

Flow Requirements & Patterns

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

Good flow is important to keep the dense branch structure clean. The fine branches can trap detritus without adequate water movement. Strong, variable flow patterns work well, though direct laminar flow from powerheads should be avoided as it can damage delicate branch tips.

Nutrient Dynamics & Water Chemistry

Seriatopora is more tolerant of parameter variations than Acropora, making it a good intermediate SPS choice. It prefers relatively clean water but isn't as demanding as the most sensitive species. Stability remains important but there's more room for error.

Feeding Biology & Symbiosis

Seriatopora rely primarily on their zooxanthellae for nutrition. Their small polyps can capture fine particulate matter but don't require target feeding.

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

Broadcast feeding of fine foods and amino acid supplementation may enhance growth and coloration but isn't essential for healthy specimens.

Common Diseases, Pests & Predators

• Less prone to common SPS pests than Acropora
• Can experience RTN/STN under stress
• Branch tips can break from physical damage
• Interior die-off from inadequate flow

Seriatopora is hardier than many SPS corals regarding pests. Main issues arise from flow or parameter problems rather than predation. Keep flow strong enough to penetrate the dense branch structure.

Compatibility & Placement

Birdsnest corals are peaceful with minimal stinging capability. They can be damaged by aggressive neighbors and should be protected from sweeper tentacles of LPS corals. The delicate branches are easily broken by fish or physical contact.

• Best zone: Middle to upper tank
• Give space: 3–4 inches for growth
• Fragile: Protect from physical damage

Fragging Techniques

Seriatopora frags very easily—the thin branches can be snapped by hand or cut with bone cutters. Even small fragments survive and grow. Frags establish quickly and begin branching within weeks. The ease of fragging and rapid growth make this an excellent coral for trading and sharing.

Aquacultured Strains & Trade Names

Popular varieties include "Pink Birdsnest," "Green Birdsnest," "Yellow Birdsnest," and various pastel color morphs. Most specimens are aquacultured and adapt well to aquarium conditions. Colors are generally stable but may shift with lighting changes.

Difficulty Rating & Summary

Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate (SPS)

Birdsnest coral is an excellent introduction to SPS keeping for hobbyists who have mastered beginner species. Its rapid growth, attractive form, and relative forgiveness provide a confidence-building experience before tackling more demanding Acropora. The delicate, intricate structure adds visual interest to any reef aquarium.