Purple Candy Cane

The Candy Cane Coral, known scientifically as Caulastrea furcata, is a classic Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral that has been a favorite in the reef aquarium hobby for many years. Its distinct growth form and relative hardiness make it an excellent choice for aquarists looking to add a branching coral with large, colorful polyps to their reef tank. It is a rewarding species that can show noticeable growth in a stable environment.

This coral is characterized by its branching skeleton, where each stalk is topped with a large, fleshy polyp. The common name is derived from the striped pattern often seen on the oral disc, which resembles a piece of candy. This particular variety displays a notable purple hue on its polyps, adding a cool, rich color to the aquascape. During the day, the polyps expand significantly, giving the colony a full and textured look.

For best care, Purple Candy Cane Corals should be placed in the lower to middle regions of the tank, on the sandbed or low on the rockwork. They thrive in low to moderate lighting (75-150 PAR) and prefer low to moderate water flow, which is just enough to prevent detritus from settling on them without causing the polyps to retract. While they are photosynthetic, their health and growth are greatly improved with direct feeding. We recommend target feeding small meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or LPS-specific pellets 2-3 times per week. Maintain standard reef parameters, including calcium at 400-450 ppm, alkalinity at 8-12 dKH, and magnesium at 1250-1350 ppm. This is a peaceful coral, but it should be given a few inches of space from its neighbors to avoid any potential contact. Always acclimate new corals slowly to your tank's conditions.

The Candy Cane Coral is a satisfying species for any reefer to keep. Its steady branching growth allows it to develop into an impressive colony over time, adding interesting structure and color to the aquarium without being overly aggressive towards other corals.

Please note: This is not a WYSIWYG item. You will receive a coral frag of the same species and similar coloration/quality to what is photographed, but the exact specimen may vary. Each piece is unique and hand-selected for health and color

We take livestock seriously. That's why we don't sell anything we wouldn't be comfortable putting in our own tank.

As we are direct from source, we import and sell direct to the public. This means you can buy with confidence knowing EMA prides itself on excellent handling and conditioning protocols.

Fish

All our fish held in a quarantine system for a minimum of 3 weeks. During this time, regular water changes are performed, and twice daily (or sometimes more) feedings are performed.

Copper is dosed and checked twice a day for ich and velvet.

During this treatment fish are given formalin baths for brooklynella and a minimum of 3 praziquantel doses is performed for flukes.

Coral

Our coral is quarantined for a minimum of 3 weeks, just like fish. During this time, regular water changes are performed, water testing done, and once a month a Fauna Marin ICP Total is performed.

Corals are inspected for pests/general health and are provided with a pest dip once a week for at least 3 weeks.

If we see signs of pests, the quarantine period is extended and/or additional dips are performed

If coral is bleached/unhealthy, it will remain in quarantine until healthy enough to sell.