Catalaphyllia jardinei – Elegance Coral

Catalaphyllia jardinei, known as Elegance Coral, is a striking LPS coral that often serves as the centerpiece of a reef aquarium. It forms a large, fleshy polyp structure with long, mobile tentacles that undulate in the water flow. The tentacles are often green, brown, or multicolored, and their tips can glow brightly under aquarium lighting.

In a reef aquarium, the Elegance Coral typically thrives on a sand bed or low rock structure where it can spread out naturally. The coral needs space around it, as its tentacles can extend quite far and sting nearby corals. It obtains much of its energy from symbiotic zooxanthellae algae but often also benefits from occasional feeding with mysis shrimp or other small meaty foods.

Stable water parameters, moderate lighting, and gentle but consistent flow help this species thrive in a reef aquarium.

Features

large and striking LPS coral

long, undulating tentacles

often bright green or multicolored hues

serves as a striking centerpiece in the aquarium

can grow long sweepers

Care Requirements

Feature Recommendation

Difficulty moderate

Lighting low – moderate

Flow low – moderate

Placement in aquarium sand bed or lower area

Growth rate slow

Good to know

Elegance Coral can grow long sweepers that may harm nearby corals. Therefore, it's advisable to provide it with sufficient space in the aquarium. Many individuals also respond well to occasional targeted feeding.

Suitability

suitable for reef aquariums

generally compatible with fish and invertebrates

suitable for hobbyists with some experience with LPS corals