Description
Cushion Coral (Cladocora caespitosa)
(Also known as the Mediterranean Cushion Coral or Colonial Cushion Coral)
Overview
The Cushion Coral (Cladocora caespitosa) is a hardy, colonial large-polyp stony (LPS) coral known for its rounded, cushion-like colonies composed of tightly packed tubular corallites. Each polyp is large and fleshy, expanding beautifully under gentle flow to form a soft, pillow-shaped surface. Colours range from cream, tan, and brown to golden-green or olive hues, often with fluorescent highlights under actinic lighting. This species is slow-growing but very resilient, making it ideal for stable, mature reef aquariums.
Origin
Native to the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the eastern Atlantic Ocean, including coastal regions of Spain, Italy, Greece, and the Adriatic Sea. It inhabits rocky reef slopes, caves, and sheltered coastal zones from shallow waters down to depths of 40 meters (130 feet).
Feeding
C. caespitosa is photosynthetic, containing zooxanthellae that provide most of its energy needs through photosynthesis. However, supplemental feeding helps maintain colour and promote tissue growth:
-
Fine zooplankton, rotifers, or phytoplankton
-
Marine snow or coral micro foods
-
Finely chopped meaty foods (occasionally, 1–2 times weekly)
Target feeding at night or during periods of polyp extension is most effective.
Lighting
Moderate lighting. Cushion Coral thrives under moderate, full-spectrum lighting from LED, T5, or metal halidesystems.
-
PAR range: 100–200 µmol/m²/s
-
Too much light can cause retraction or bleaching; acclimate slowly when moving to brighter zones.
-
Blue and actinic lighting accentuate its natural fluorescence.
Water Flow
Low to moderate, indirect flow. Gentle, variable current is ideal to keep the polyps clean and ensure proper gas exchange without damaging the fleshy tissue. Avoid strong, direct jets.
Placement
-
Place in the mid to lower regions of the aquarium on stable rockwork or the substrate.
-
Ensure the colony has space for slow but steady outward expansion.
-
Avoid sharp surfaces that can irritate the coral’s soft polyps.
Tank Mates
Peaceful and reef safe. Suitable with:
-
All reef-safe fish (clownfish, gobies, tangs, blennies, etc.)
-
Shrimp, snails, hermits, and other invertebrates
-
Other LPS and soft corals placed at a respectful distance
Avoid:
-
Aggressive or fast-growing corals that may encroach (e.g., Euphyllia, Galaxea, Hydnophora)
-
Large angelfish or butterflyfish that may nip its polyps
Aggression
Peaceful. Cladocora does not possess long sweeper tentacles and is generally non-aggressive. Maintain several centimetres of spacing to prevent competition or accidental contact.
Experience Level
Beginner to intermediate. Hardy, tolerant, and slow-growing, Cladocora caespitosa adapts well to stable aquarium conditions and is suitable for aquarists seeking a resilient and unusual Mediterranean coral.
Water Parameters
-
Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)
-
pH: 8.1–8.4
-
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
-
Hardness (dKH): 8–12
-
Calcium: 400–450 ppm
-
Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
-
Nitrate: <10 ppm
-
Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons (280L) for long-term stability
Maintain consistent calcium and alkalinity levels to support slow but steady skeletal development.
Reef Compatibility
Fully reef safe. The Cushion Coral is a robust and peaceful addition to mixed reef aquariums, offering unique texture and natural form. Its rounded colonies and subtle fluorescence make it an excellent contrast to branching or plating corals. Ideal for aquarists looking to include a hardy Mediterranean species in their reef display.