Turbinaria reniformis

[returnofsid]

Hi Kevin,
I've got a question regarding T. reniformis. I've read where this is an LPS and also read where it's an SPS. In Eric Borneman's book "Aquarium Corals Selection, Husbandry and Natural History," the family Dendros. are described as some being SPS and some LPS...or is it some can be SPS and LPS?
Anyway, I'm most interested in T. reniformis and if it's classified SPS or LPS. Any other information you can give me on this particular species, lighting needs, flow, feeding habits if any...would be very helpful. Thanks a lot!!
From what I've read and studied so far, it should normally be treated like an SPS, needing moderate to high lighting and moderate to high flow. I've got mine about mid tank under my T5s. (6X54 watt Tek 5) Just added it tonight so am curious about it. With the polyps quite larger than some other SPS, I'm wondering if it's able to feed on larger foods, such as Cyclopeze or BBS.

 

[returnofsid]

One other question for when the time comes...how would you recommend fragging this coral? I have noticed that the skeleton is quite thick.

 

[kevinpo]

The terms LPS and SPS have no scientific significance. They are used mostly by hobbyists. To keep the yellow color it needs moderate to high light and enough flow to keep detritus from settling on it. It is quite hardy and tolerates a wide range of parameters. A sharp pair of cutters can be used to frag it.

It grows rather slowly becoming much heavier as it grows. It can eat foods as large a mysis shrimp. Polyps are usually extended in the evening just before and after the lights go out.

Here is a picture of mine from almost 6 years ago:

Here it is 2 years ago:

Regards,
Kevin

 

[Kurt_Nelson]

Question I have about them is if it's hardy enough to be located 5-6" below the surface of compact flourescents? Survive, but probably lose it's coloration?

 

[returnofsid]

Kevin, your's looks almost exactly like mine...reassures me that I've ID'd it properly...lol. Thanks for the great information. I've currently got it in the upper 1/3 of the tank, under T5s and in a good high flow area. We're also going to be careful to blast it with a turkey baster on a regular basis to keep it clear of detritus. Polyps were expanded very well last night at lights out and I fed the tank cyclopeeze soon after lights out. I try to feed this a few times a week, to the entire tank, as soon as I notice most polyps of my corals are in "feeding mode."

 

[kevinpo]

Question I have about them is if it's hardy enough to be located 5-6" below the surface of compact fluorescents? Survive, but probably lose it's coloration?

It will do quite well and the color will be just fine if you keep the bulbs fresh and the water clarity up.

Regards,
Kevin