Duncan Coral, scientifically known as Duncanopsammia axifuga, is a popular large-polyp stony (LPS) coral known for its long, flowing tentacles and bright green or purple centers. Each head (polyp) sits on a branching skeleton, giving it a flower-like appearance when fully extended.
Duncans are especially loved because they combine eye-catching movement with relatively easy care, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced reef keepers.
Small duncan
$60.00Price
Lighting
- Low to moderate lighting
- Can adapt to higher light if acclimated slowly
- Too much light may cause retraction
Water Flow
- Moderate, indirect flow
- Enough to gently move the tentacles, but not whip them around
Placement
- Middle to lower areas of the tank
- Can be placed on rockwork or sand if stable
- Leave space for growth and tentacle extension
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 76–80°F
- Salinity: 1.024–1.026
- pH: 8.1–8.4
- Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
- Calcium: 400–450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
- Stable parameters are key for steady growth
Feeding
- Photosynthetic but benefits greatly from feeding
- Will readily accept:
- Mysis shrimp
- Brine shrimp
- Reef pellets or frozen blends
- Feeding 1–2 times per week can increase growth and polyp production
Behavior & Compatibility
- Peaceful and reef-safe
- Has short sweeper tentacles, so it’s less aggressive than many LPS corals
- Can usually be placed closer to other non-aggressive corals, but still allow some space
Growth & Propagation
- Fast-growing under good conditions
- New heads bud from the base of existing polyps
- Can be fragged by cutting between branches of the skeleton
Important Notes
- Very hardy, but still sensitive to sudden parameter swings
- Polyps retract when stressed—this is an early warning sign
- Avoid placing in overly strong flow or direct blast from pumps
