Stylophora corals (often called “cat’s paw” corals) are small-polyp stony (SPS) corals known for their thick, blunt branching structure and slightly fuzzy appearance from extended polyps. They come in a variety of colors—pink, green, purple, and cream—and add both height and polyp movement to a reef tank. Compared to many SPS, Stylophora are relatively hardy and a good entry point for hobbyists looking to move into more demanding coral species. For care, Stylophora prefer moderate to high lighting and moderate to strong, turbulent water flow to keep their polyps healthy and free of debris. They require stable water parameters, especially alkalinity (8–9 dKH), calcium (400–450 ppm), and magnesium (1250–1350 ppm), along with temperatures around 76–80°F and salinity near 1.025. Sudden swings can cause stress or tissue loss, so consistency is key. While they rely heavily on photosynthesis, they may benefit from occasional feeding of fine planktonic foods. Placement should allow room for growth and good flow around the colony.
