Pinwheel Candy Cane Coral
Pinwheel Candy Cane Coral
Pinwheel Candy Cane Coral (Caulastrea furcata)
The Pinwheel Candy Cane Coral is a colorful and hardy LPS coral featuring rounded, fleshy polyps with contrasting patterns that create a distinctive pinwheel-like appearance. Its bold coloration and compact branching growth make it an excellent choice for adding color and texture to almost any mixed reef aquarium.
Candy Cane Corals are especially popular for their hardiness and relatively forgiving care requirements, making the Pinwheel Candy Cane a great option for newer reef keepers while still offering the unique coloration experienced collectors look for.
Recommended Care
Scientific Name: Caulastrea furcata
Common Names: Candy Cane Coral, Trumpet Coral
Care Level: Easy
Lighting: Low to Moderate — approximately 75–150 PAR
Water Flow: Low to Moderate, indirect flow
Placement: Lower to middle areas of the aquarium
Temperament: Generally Peaceful
Growth Form: Branching
Feeding: Photosynthetic; benefits from occasional supplemental feeding
Placement & Flow
Provide gentle to moderate, indirect water flow. The fleshy polyps should move slightly without being constantly blasted by strong current. Its branching structure makes Candy Cane relatively easy to position on rockwork while leaving room for additional heads to develop.
Lighting
Pinwheel Candy Cane generally performs well under low to moderate reef lighting. Gradual light acclimation is recommended when introducing it to a new aquarium, particularly if it will eventually be placed under stronger lighting.
Feeding
Candy Cane Corals receive much of their nutritional needs through photosynthesis but are also enthusiastic feeders. Their feeding tentacles often extend after the lights dim, making this an excellent time to offer small pieces of mysis, quality LPS pellets, or other appropriately sized meaty foods.
With its unique pinwheel pattern, fleshy polyps, and beginner-friendly care requirements, the Pinwheel Candy Cane is an excellent addition to both new and established reef aquariums.