Ponape Birdsnest (Seriatopora hystrix) — Premium Aquacultured Named SPS Coral
The Ponape Birdsnest is one of the most iconic and beloved named corals in the reef hobby. Originating from Ponape (Pohnpei) in Micronesia, this stunning Seriatopora hystrix is celebrated for its vivid pink to orange-pink coloration and intricate, needle-fine branching structure. Under quality reef lighting, the Ponape Birdsnest glows with an almost neon intensity — a standout piece in any SPS-dominant system.
Few corals reward consistent husbandry as visibly as the Ponape Birdsnest. Maintain stable parameters and watch its delicate branches extend outward in every direction, creating a breathtaking, bird’s nest-like structure that becomes a conversation piece in any reef room.
Why Reefers Love the Ponape Birdsnest:
- Iconic vivid pink to orange-pink coloration — one of the most recognizable named SPS
- Delicate needle-fine branching creates stunning aquascape texture
- Faster growing than most Acropora — rewarding and satisfying to keep
- Aquacultured for superior health, pest resistance, and tank acclimation
- Strong collector and trade value as a long-established named coral
Care Requirements:
- Lighting: Medium to High (150–300 PAR) — mid to upper tank placement
- Flow: Moderate to strong — steady flow keeps branches clean and polyps extended
- Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic; benefits from amino acid supplementation
- Placement: Mid to upper rockwork — allow space for branching growth in all directions
- Water Parameters: Alkalinity 8–9 dKH | Calcium 420–450 ppm | Magnesium 1350–1450 ppm | Nitrate <10 ppm | Phosphate <0.05 ppm
Care Level: Intermediate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast — one of the faster-growing SPS under good conditions
Each Ponape Birdsnest frag is aquacultured at Reef Gurus and hand-selected for vibrant coloration and healthy branching. This is a WYSIWYG listing — the exact frag pictured is what you will receive.