The market for global reef aquariums is projected to increase from $4.36 billion in 2022 to $7.29 billion in 2027 at a CAGR of 11% by 2028.
If you’ve longed for the underwater beauty of coral reefs, but can’t make it to the tropical waters you seek, setting up an aquarium might be just what you’re looking for.
What you need to get is the right types of coral for saltwater aquariums so you can recreate some of the underwater beauty you’re after. This comes with the benefit of not having to filter the water or make sure it is the correct chemical balance. Saltwater is self-regulating.
Here, we will cover four types of coral for your saltwater aquarium beginner’s guide. Keep reading to find out more.
1. Green Star Polyp Coral
Green star polyp coral is a great easy-to-care-for type of coral for a saltwater aquarium. It adds a bright and lively splash of color to any tank, and the shades can range from brown to green, making for an interesting look.
The green star polyp is adept at filtering out particulates from the tank, so keeping your tank clean and healthy is an added benefit. It also has an interesting web-like pattern of its polyps, making it interesting to watch and admire. Additionally, it only needs moderate lighting, so it can be kept in shallow coral for reef tanks as well.
2. Finger Leather Coral
The finger leather coral is a large and bushy coral that originates from Indonesia. It has a flat, circular disc-like body shape, which ranges in size from very small to over a foot in diameter. This is low-maintenance, so it is highly recommended for beginner and novice saltwater aquarists making it the most popular coral for sale in the market.
This comes in various shades of greens, blues, yellows, and purples. It helps in establishing a proper nitrogen cycle and improves water quality. Additionally, it provides great hiding places for invertebrates and other fishes.
3. Colt Coral
Colt coral is a large polyp stony coral that is slow-growing and easy to care for. It has an exotic look, unlike many other coral species. Its fleshy polyps appear in bright colors that can include green, pink, purple, yellow, and orange.
This coral has short, branching tentacles and can grow up to 6 inches in size. Since it is slow-growing, it won’t need too much pruning or care.
4. Toadstool Mushroom Coral
Toadstool mushroom coral is a unique and eye-catching species of coral that is perfect for adding color and texture to any saltwater aquarium. This type of coral lives on the sandy reef floor, in shaded areas, and can grow to large sizes of up to 20 cm in height. The coral can come in several different colors, such as red, yellow, green, blue, and more.
It is not difficult to care for and can tolerate a variety of water conditions, making it an ideal addition for new and experienced aquarium hobbyists alike. They also reproduce quickly when kept in the right environment, providing an exciting source of life and color in the tank.
Have the Best Types of Coral
A saltwater aquarium with a variety of living corals can bring it to life and create a serene, beautiful environment. There are so many types of coral to choose from. Whether you’re looking for bright or muted colors, unique shapes, and stony, you can find the perfect coral for your tank.
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