Stylocoeniella (Stylocoeniella armatus) comes in different colors and is a species of encrusting corals with medium length polyps. Stylocoeniella Corals are best kept in tanks with medium lighting, moderate waterflow, and are best placed towards the bottom of the tank. Like most corals, they will benefit from supplemental feeding of algaes or meaty foods. Overall, they are a hardy and peaceful coral that is good for most reef tanks.

The JF Sunset Stylocoeniella has a green base with red polyps and orange mouths.

Appearance

Stylocoeniella forms a dense surface of tiny polyps over an encrusting skeletal base, creating a fuzzy, textured look. Colors vary from green to red, orange, and multi-tone varieties depending on the morph.

Care & Requirements
Stylocoeniella adapts well to moderate light, often performing best when introduced around 50–150 PAR before increasing as needed. Moderate, indirect flow helps keep the colony clear of detritus while supporting polyp extension. Stable alkalinity around 8–9 dKH, calcium between 400–450 ppm, and magnesium near 1300–1400 ppm contribute to reliable growth. Placement on rockwork or sloped surfaces gives the coral room to expand outward. Occasional light micro-feeding can support coloration without elevating nutrients.

Tank Mates & Compatibility
Stylocoeniella remains peaceful and can coexist with most reef-safe fish and corals. Because it encrusts outward, leaving 1–2 inches of open space prevents crowding and shading issues. Avoid placing it near long-sweeper LPS or corals that create heavy shade.

Aquaculture/Availability
Stylocoeniella is produced through aquaculture for several morphs, though availability varies and some pieces still originate from wild collection. Aquacultured frags tend to adjust to home systems more easily and arrive with higher resilience.

FAQ

Q: What lighting range works best for Stylocoeniella coral?
Moderate light in the 50–150 PAR range works well for most tanks. Increase lighting slowly if the coral maintains color and shows full polyp extension.

Q: What type of flow promotes healthy growth?
Moderate, indirect, alternating flow keeps the surface clear without forcing polyps to retract. This balance supports stable encrusting growth.

Q: What water chemistry should be maintained?
Keep alkalinity around 8–9 dKH, calcium near 400–450 ppm, magnesium around 1300–1400 ppm, and nutrients within moderate reef levels to avoid stress.

Q: Is Stylocoeniella well-suited for new SPS keepers?
Yes, it is often recommended as a manageable SPS species due to its resilience and encrusting growth habit.

Q: How much space should I leave for this coral?
Providing 1–2 inches of open area helps prevent growth conflicts as it spreads across rock surfaces.

Q: Does it benefit from occasional feeding?
Light supplemental feeding can improve coloration and growth, though it should be balanced to avoid raising nutrient levels.