Alveopora Coral

Alveopora, or Flower Pots as they are often referred to as, are a vibrant, fan favorite LPS Coral, that add tremendous movement to a reef tank! Their long polyps, similar to some Goniopora species, ripple through the flow and make for a stunning view!

Alveopora vs Goniopora

It is no secret that Alveopora and Goniopora are extremely similar in appearance, most Reefers struggle with differentiating the two! Seeing them both side by side, its easy to see why Reefers get them confused. Both colorful, LPS corals, with near identical polyp structure, that extend long from their stony bases, make it quite difficult!

Alveopora typically come in lighter pastel colors, light greens, pinks, oranges, yellows, teals, and whites. Compared to their crazy, extreme colored Goniopora counterparts! This can sometimes be an easy way to tell them apart, however Goni can also come in those lighter colors! Thankfully, there is a much easier, fool-proof way to tell them apart!

Count the Tentacles!

Count the tentacles! At the end of each long, extended polyp, both Alveos and Goni have several tentacles, surrounding the center mouth in a circular pattern. Goniopora have 24 of these tentacles, which are usually, but not always, longer and more wispy. Alveopora only have 12 tentacles, and they are usually much more short and fat. Closely resembling the petals on a flower, which is where they get their nickname, Flowerpots!

Alveopora Care

Alveopora, in our opinion, are much hardier and easier to keep then Goniopora! They seem to live much better long term, and are less picky about their tank placement and conditions. They prefer moderate lighting and moderate flow. Too much or too little of either can be damaging. Too much light and flow and they will bleach and retract. Too little and their beautiful colors will fade and they will sit stagnate and starve! We also spot feed our Alveopora a few times a week, smaller mysis and brine shrimp blends, that they love to close up on and feed!

About the Author

Jonathan Schellhorn

Owner of Corals.com & Coral Expert

For the last 10+ years, I have devoted my professional career to this industry. I have personally seen, cared for, photographed, studied, and successfully shipped more coral than almost anyone in the world. We’re proud to be a small family owned business, despite our big name! Family is of the utmost importance to us and we truly carry that mentality and treatment over to all of our customers. Treat others as you would wanted to be treated rings through and through in our company culture. I’m here to personally take care of all of your needs from start to finish and beyond. While online ordering can seem somewhat impersonal, I can assure you that you will experience the best personal customer service anywhere! I hope to earn your business and exceed your expectations!

15

Total Articles
since 2018

Follow the expert: