What is cyphastrea?

Cyphastrea is a genus of small, encrusting stony corals belonging to the family Merulinidae. These corals are found in shallow, tropical waters in the Indo-Pacific region.

Cyphastrea corals are known for their distinctive appearance, with thin, wavy ridges and valleys on their surface. They come in a variety of colors, including shades of green, brown, and pink.

These corals are commonly found in reef environments, where they can form dense colonies. They are photosynthetic, meaning they have algae living within their tissues that provide them with energy through photosynthesis.

Cyphastrea corals are popular in the aquarium trade due to their vibrant colors and hardy nature. They require moderate to high lighting and moderate water flow to thrive in captivity.

Overall, Cyphastrea corals are an important part of coral reef ecosystems, providing habitat and food for a variety of marine organisms. They are also valuable for their ecological contributions, such as reef building and nutrient recycling.