Nephthea sp.
| Care Level | Easy to moderate |
| Lighting | Low to moderate |
| Water Flow | Moderate to strong |
| Placement | Rock, mid tank |
| Aggression | Peaceful |
| Coloration | Green |
Overview
The Palau Green Nephthea is a soft coral that grows in a bushy, tree- or cauliflower-like form covered in tiny polyps, in a bright green. Often sold as a tree, broccoli, or colt coral, it is an attractive and relatively easy soft coral that adds a lot of texture and gentle motion to the reef.
Care & Placement
Easy to moderate. Give it low to moderate light and, importantly, moderate to strong flow — good water movement keeps its polyps extended and stops detritus settling on the branches. It is a little fussier about flow and stability than a leather coral, so a settled tank suits it best.
Feeding
Largely photosynthetic, but Nephthea benefits from occasional fine planktonic foods, and it relies more on flow bringing food and nutrients to its polyps than a pure light-feeder like a leather does. Good flow plus light is the key combination.
Propagation
Cut a branch and attach it to rubble until it takes hold, the same as other soft corals. It frags readily, though fresh cuttings appreciate gentle flow while they settle.
Cautions
Like other soft corals it can release mild chemical compounds, so run carbon and give it a little space from sensitive corals. It genuinely needs good flow: in weak, stagnant flow it often stays closed and slowly declines. Some Nephthea can be a bit temperamental about stability, so avoid big parameter swings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Palau Green Nephthea reef safe?
Yes. It is a peaceful soft coral that will not physically sting neighbors, though like all soft corals it can release mild chemical compounds, so run carbon and give it a little space.
What water flow does Nephthea need?
Moderate to strong. Good flow keeps its polyps extended and stops detritus from settling on the branches; in weak flow it tends to stay closed and slowly decline.
Is Palau Green Nephthea easy to keep?
It is relatively easy, a bit more demanding than a leather coral about flow and stability, but a good soft coral for someone who has the basics dialed in.