Christmas tree coral (Studeriotes longiramosa) care guide

Group
Corals
Other names
Studeriotes
Family
Paralcyoniidae
Origin
Indo-Pacific, on soft bottoms
Water
saltwater
Temperature
22–26°C
pH
8.1–8.4
Hardness
dKH 8–12
Care level
expert
Reef safe
yes
Lighting
Not photosynthetic; light only for viewing
Flow
Moderate to strong

Care

Studeriotes longiramosa is a non-photosynthetic soft coral shaped like a small fir tree, with branches of fine polyps that open by day and close at night. It is usually brown, tan or grey and can retract fully into its base. LiveAquaria's Christmas tree coral is listed as Sphaerella spp., a relative in the same family, so these figures come from that page. LiveAquaria rates it moderate, with low light, medium to strong flow and placement on the bottom. Because it must be fed, Studeriotes has a poor long-term record and is listed here as expert. Water: LiveAquaria gives dKH 8–12, pH 8.1–8.4 and 22–26 °C, with iodine, strontium and trace elements. It often shrinks and swells, so give it room. Sources: LiveAquaria (liveaquaria.com/products/christmas-tree-coral). Checked October 2026.

Diet

Not photosynthetic: it has no zooxanthellae and must be fed. LiveAquaria lists live baby brine shrimp, micro-plankton and other small filter-feeder foods; daily feeding is best.

Breeding

Rarely propagated in aquariums.

Compatibility and tank mates

Peaceful (LiveAquaria).

Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.

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