Branching Hydnophora Mint Green
Branching Hydnophora Mint Green
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Description
Description
Branching Hydnophora – Mint Green Coral Frag
The Branching Hydnophora (Mint Green) is a visually striking coral known for its vivid mint-green colouration and unique branching growth form. With its spiked, textured branches and strong fluorescence under blue lighting, this coral adds dramatic structure and standout colour to reef aquariums.
Often referred to as a Horn Coral, Hydnophora sits at the intersection of LPS and SPS characteristics—offering bold structure and resilience while still delivering eye-catching colour and movement.
Natural Habitat & Distribution
Hydnophora corals are native to the Indo-Pacific region, where they are found across:
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The Great Barrier Reef, Australia
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Indonesia
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Fiji and Tonga
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The Philippines
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Central and Western Pacific reef systems
In the wild, Hydnophora species inhabit shallow reef slopes and exposed reef zones, where they experience strong lighting and moderate to strong water movement. These conditions influence their preference for bright light and good flow in aquarium environments.
A Brief History
Hydnophora corals have long been appreciated in the reef-keeping hobby for their fast growth, distinctive skeletal structure, and resilience. Unlike many SPS corals, Hydnophora is known for its aggressive growth behaviour, making it a popular choice for reef keepers seeking bold structure with minimal fuss.
The mint green variety has become especially popular due to its clean, modern colouration and intense fluorescence under blue-heavy lighting.
Appearance & Growth
Classified as an LPS coral with SPS-like growth, Branching Hydnophora develops upright, spiked branches with a coarse, textured surface.
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Thick, horn-like branches
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Intense mint-green colouration
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Strong fluorescence under blue and actinic lighting
Growth is fast under stable conditions, quickly creating dramatic reef structure.
Placement & Lighting
Branching Hydnophora performs best under medium to high lighting, closely replicating its natural reef environment.
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Lighting: Medium–High
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Best placed in the mid to upper sections of the aquarium
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Lower light may reduce growth and colour intensity
Flow Requirements
Provide moderate to strong, indirect flow to support healthy growth and prevent detritus accumulation. Avoid placing the coral in harsh, direct laminar flow.
Water Chemistry
Maintain stable reef parameters for long-term health:
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Calcium
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Alkalinity
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Magnesium
Along with balanced trace elements. Regular testing and water changes are recommended.
Feeding
Primarily photosynthetic, Branching Hydnophora does not require target feeding but may benefit from occasional supplemental feeding of:
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Fine powdered coral foods
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Micro-plankton blends
These feeds can support faster growth and overall vitality.
Temperament & Spacing
Hydnophora is aggressive.
It possesses strong sweeper tentacles capable of stinging neighbouring corals. Provide ample space and avoid placing near more delicate species.
Frag Size & Natural Variation
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Frag size: Approximately 1 inch
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Each frag is unique and may vary slightly in shape and colour depending on lighting and tank conditions.
Care Summary
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Care Level: Moderate
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Flow: Medium–High
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Lighting: Medium–High
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Temperament: Aggressive
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WYSIWYG
Every featured frag is photographed individually, so the coral you see is exactly the one you’ll receive. No stock images, no substitutions — just honest, WYSIWYG frags grown and cared for in our systems.