Stylophora (Cat's Paw Coral)

Taxonomy & Identity

Stylophora, commonly called Cat's Paw or Club Finger Coral, is one of the easier SPS corals to keep. Known for its thick, blunt-tipped branches and fuzzy polyp extension, it's often recommended as a beginner's entry into SPS coral keeping. It grows quickly and comes in various attractive colors.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

Stylophora pistillata has one of the widest distributions of any coral species, found from the Red Sea across the Indo-Pacific to the Eastern Pacific. It inhabits various reef zones from shallow reef flats to deeper slopes, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to different conditions.

Morphology & Growth Forms

Stylophora grows as branching colonies with thick, club-shaped or blunt-ended branches. Branches are densely covered with small, embedded corallites. Polyps are small and fuzzy when extended, giving the colony a soft appearance. Colors include pink, purple, green, cream, and various pastel shades.

Lighting Requirements & Spectrum

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

Stylophora adapts to a wide range of lighting conditions, making it more forgiving than many SPS corals. It does well under moderate to high light and can tolerate higher PAR than many beginners expect. Colors often intensify under higher light with blue spectrum emphasis.

Flow Requirements & Patterns

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

Good water flow is important for Stylophora health, helping to deliver nutrients and prevent detritus accumulation in the dense branches. Flow should be strong enough to keep the coral clean but not so intense that polyps can't extend. Variable, chaotic patterns work well.

Nutrient Dynamics & Water Chemistry

Stylophora is more tolerant of parameter variations than most SPS corals. While it benefits from stable, clean water, it can survive conditions that would stress Acropora. This forgiveness makes it ideal for hobbyists developing their SPS husbandry skills.

Feeding Biology & Symbiosis

Stylophora rely primarily on zooxanthellae for nutrition but can capture fine particulate matter. Their small polyps are not suited for large food items.

• Phytoplankton
• Amino acids
• Fine coral foods
• Dissolved organic matter

Direct feeding isn't critical but broadcasting fine foods and dosing amino acids can enhance growth and coloration.

Common Diseases, Pests & Predators

• Generally pest-resistant compared to Acropora
• Can be affected by RTN/STN if stressed
• Less susceptible to AEFW than Acropora
• May be nipped by certain fish

Stylophora is hardier than many SPS corals regarding pests and disease. Standard quarantine and dipping are still recommended. Problems typically arise from parameter instability rather than pests.

Compatibility & Placement

Stylophora is relatively peaceful with limited stinging capability. It can be placed near other SPS corals without significant conflict. Its rapid growth means it will need space to expand. Can be shaded by faster-growing neighbors.

• Best zone: Middle to upper tank
• Give space: 3–4 inches for growth
• Compatible with: Other SPS, peaceful LPS

Fragging Techniques

Stylophora frags very easily using bone cutters to snip off branches. The thick branches are sturdy and easy to handle. Frags can be glued directly to plugs and typically encrust quickly. Fast healing and growth make this an excellent coral for fragging practice.

Aquacultured Strains & Trade Names

Popular varieties include "Milka Stylo" (lavender/pink), "Green Stylophora," "Purple Stylophora," and "Pink Lemonade." Most specimens in the trade are aquacultured and well-adapted to aquarium conditions. Various pastel color combinations are available.

Difficulty Rating & Summary

Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate (SPS)

Stylophora is often called the "beginner's SPS" for good reason. Its tolerance of varied conditions, rapid growth, and resistance to common SPS problems make it an excellent introduction to small-polyp stony corals. Success with Stylophora builds confidence for tackling more demanding species like Acropora.