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# Live Aquarium Plants and Corals

By [Aqua Explorer (@aquaexplorer)](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer)

93 views · 0 likes · 0 followers  
Published 5 February 2024 · Updated 22 March 2024

Category: hobbies & interests

Aquascaping, the art of creating underwater landscapes, transforms aquariums into living works of art. At the heart of this captivating hobby are live aquatic plants, which not only enhance the visual appeal but also play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy aquatic environment. These plants contribute to the balance of the ecosystem by providing oxygen, shelter, and natural filtration, creating a harmonious habitat for your aquatic friends.

This carefully curated list of live aquatic plants, available on Amazon, offers a diverse range of species suitable for both novice and experienced aquascapers. From the low-maintenance Java Moss to the striking Red Ludwigia, each plant has been selected for its unique characteristics and ease of care. Whether you're aiming to create a serene green haven or a vibrant underwater jungle, these plants cater to all styles and preferences. Explore the possibilities of aquascaping and watch your aquarium transform into a living masterpiece.

## Items

### 1. [Pulsing Xenia](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/4/pulsing-xenia)

Item ID: `4`

- Description: Pulsing Xenia, known for its unique rhythmic pulsing motion, is a captivating soft coral that resembles tiny dancing trees. Its fronds pulse in the water, making it a dynamic and mesmerizing addition to any marine aquarium.
- Scientific Name: Xenia elongata
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1 to 8.4 Salinity: 1.023 to 1.026 specific gravity Alkalinity: 8 to 11 dKH Calcium: 380 to 450 ppm
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Best placed near the bottom of the tank, on its own rock
- Substrate Requirements: No specific substrate requirement; attaches to rocks.
- Size at Maturity: Varies, can form large colonies.
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Acts as a natural filtration system by absorbing nutrients from the water.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★☆
- Special Care Instructions: Requires moderate to low lighting and moderate to strong water flow. Monitor growth to prevent over-spreading. Does not require direct feeding as it absorbs nutrients from the water and relies on photosynthesis.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/nzbhxbho8rw79bwhgcru.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/Live-Saltwater-Coral-Frag-Pulsing/dp/B08ZYBN6QV](https://www.amazon.com/Live-Saltwater-Coral-Frag-Pulsing/dp/B08ZYBN6QV?tag=listium03-20)

### 2. [Golden Perch Hammer](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/14/golden-perch-hammer)

Item ID: `14`

- Description: The Golden Perch Hammer Coral, known for its unique tentacle tips that resemble a hammer or anchor shape, is a type of large polyp stony (LPS) coral. It comes in a variety of colors including greens, purples, browns, oranges, yellows, and blues. This coral is popular for its movement in water currents and its colorful display.
- Scientific Name: Euphyllia Ancora
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 76-82°F (24.4-27.8°C) pH: 8.0-8.4 Salinity: 1.025 or 35 PPT Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH Calcium: 350-450 ppm Magnesium: 1200-1350 ppm
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Difficulty Level for Care: Moderate
- Placement: Flexible in placement but best in medium water flow and medium light. Placement should be planned to avoid interaction with other corals due to its aggressive nature.
- Substrate Requirements: Can be placed on the substrate or on rocks.
- Size at Maturity: Varies, can form large colonies over time
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Adds color and dynamic movement to the aquarium
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★★
- Special Care Instructions: Moderate lighting with PAR levels between 80 and 150. Requires stable water parameters and careful placement to avoid harming other corals.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/zfcfzdpdbwhapszrnewj.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B1XXQLKN](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B1XXQLKN?tag=listium03-20)

### 3. [Golden Galaxea Long Tentacles](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/8/golden-galaxea-long-tentacles)

Item ID: `8`

- Description: Golden Galaxea is a vibrant and colorful coral featuring long tentacles that range from deep gold to bright yellow with white tips and a light green mouth at the center. This hardy stony coral quickly grows additional heads and has a long tentacle variety with extremely fluorescent coloration. The appearance of this coral may change depending on the light and water conditions in the tank.
- Scientific Name: Galaxea fascicularis
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 72° – 78 °F pH: 8.1 – 8.4 Salinity: 1.023 – 1.025 Alkalinity: 8 – 11 dKH Calcium: 400 – 450 ppm Magnesium: 1200 – 1350 ppm Phosphates: <0.10 ppm Nitrates: <10 ppm
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Difficulty Level for Care: Moderate
- Placement: Requires plenty of space
- Substrate Requirements: No specific substrate requirement; can be placed on a rock or substrate.
- Size at Maturity: Variable, depends on tank conditions.
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Adds striking coloration and unique structure.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★★
- Special Care Instructions: Moderate water flow is recommended. Although it relies heavily on zooxanthellae, feeding finely ground meaty foods can be beneficial. Be cautious of its long tentacles that can extend at night or during feeding time, potentially harming neighboring corals.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/ug3cuiakzuhlscfehey9.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0965Z5PSQ](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0965Z5PSQ?tag=listium03-20)

### 4. [Red Dragon's Breath](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/11/red-dragons-breath)

Item ID: `11`

- Description: Red Dragon's Breath is a type of macroalgae with a deep red coloration and bright orange-yellow fluorescence at the tip of each frond. Its distinct fronds and frilly, ribbon-like appearance make it a sought-after species for reef aquaria. It grows in cycles and should be divided regularly.
- Scientific Name: Halymenia durvillei
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25.6°C) Salinity: 1.023-1.026 pH: 8.0-8.4 Alkalinity: 8-10 dKH
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Can be planted directly into the substrate or attached to a piece of rubble rock.
- Substrate Requirements: No specific substrate requirement; can be attached to rocks or placed in the substrate.
- Size at Maturity: Size varies; fronds can grow in distinct patterns.
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Absorbs nutrients from the tank, reducing levels of phosphate and nitrate. Also serves as a food source for fish such as tangs and a hiding place for small organisms.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★★
- Special Care Instructions: Requires moderate to high-intensity lighting in the range of 350-500 PAR. Should be tumbled for optimal growth and nutrient absorption. Regular trimming helps control growth and remove absorbed nutrients from the tank.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/emb8alnjnn9gtld3fo8n.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B091SLCT2K](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B091SLCT2K?tag=listium03-20)

### 5. [Red Bush Gracilaria](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/0/red-bush-gracilaria)

Item ID: `0`

- Description: Red Bush Gracilaria, known scientifically as Gracilaria curtissae, is a stunning red macroalgae that features rigid, irregularly shaped branches forming a symmetrical bush. It's lightly calcified, making it less appealing as food for fish and invertebrates. This algae thrives in strong light and moderate currents, requiring a well-balanced environment that replicates natural seawater conditions.
- Scientific Name: Gracilaria curtissae
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78° F (22-26° C) pH: 8.1 to 8.4 Salinity (Specific Gravity): 1.023 to 1.026 Calcium: 350-450 ppm Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH Magnesium: Levels consistent with natural seawater
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Suitable for both refugium and display tank.
- Substrate Requirements: Attaches to limestone or occasionally to basalt substrates. Can be anchored between rockwork in the aquarium.
- Size at Maturity: around 18 inches
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Helps remove excess nutrients like nitrates and phosphates, providing a natural food source for herbivorous fish.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★☆
- Special Care Instructions: Requires a bit of calcium supplementation. It's a slow grower and not very palatable to fish or invertebrates, making it less likely to be eaten.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/bfex1ltmvraq4rp8zeec.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/Saltwater-Plant-Gracilaria-Macro-Algae/dp/B08M5NJQR3](https://www.amazon.com/Saltwater-Plant-Gracilaria-Macro-Algae/dp/B08M5NJQR3?tag=listium03-20)

### 6. [Pom Pom Gracilaria](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/1/pom-pom-gracilaria)

Item ID: `1`

- Description: Gracilaria Pom Pom, also known as Red Bush Algae (Gracilaria hayi), is a striking red marine macroalgae. It's known for its beautiful fluorescent red color and rigid, irregularly shaped branches that form symmetrical bushes. This algae is ideal for nutrient management and visual enhancement in marine aquariums.
- Scientific Name: Gracilaria hayi
- Ideal Water Parameters: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.026
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Background or midground due to its size and growth pattern.
- Substrate Requirements: Does not attach itself to rocks or substrate; can live freely rolling along the seafloor.
- Size at Maturity: Grows in spherical clumps; size varies.
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Efficiently reduces nitrates, phosphates, and organic waste; provides shelter for copepods, amphipods, and beneficial microbes.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★☆
- Special Care Instructions: Thrives in strong water flow and strong lighting. Supplements like Magnesium, Trace Elements, Iron may be beneficial.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/s0bjfuxdeu7ar9b9kxdk.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/Saltwater-Gracilaria-Refugium-Copepods-Amphipods/dp/B088FYG75W](https://www.amazon.com/Saltwater-Gracilaria-Refugium-Copepods-Amphipods/dp/B088FYG75W?tag=listium03-20)

### 7. [Chaeto Chato](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/2/chaeto-chato)

Item ID: `2`

- Description: Chaetomorpha, commonly known as Chaeto or Spaghetti Algae, is a green macroalgae that grows in long, wiry filaments forming tangled masses. It's highly efficient in nutrient export, making it a favorite among reef keepers for maintaining water quality and providing habitat for microcrustaceans.
- Scientific Name: Chaetomorpha linum
- Ideal Water Parameters: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.026
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Typically used in a refugium or macroalgae reactor
- Substrate Requirements: Does not attach to substrate; grows suspended or resting on substrates.
- Size at Maturity: Forms tangled masses, size can vary.
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Rapidly absorbs excess nutrients like nitrates and phosphates; provides habitat for microcrustaceans.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★☆☆
- Special Care Instructions: Requires intense full-spectrum lighting for optimal growth. Regular harvesting is necessary to prevent self-shading and maintain nutrient export.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/jetkqgkztsspe1yvat5y.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/Saltwater-Plant-Chaetomorpha-Chaeto-Refugium/dp/B08M5ZCJ29](https://www.amazon.com/Saltwater-Plant-Chaetomorpha-Chaeto-Refugium/dp/B08M5ZCJ29?tag=listium03-20)

### 8. [Kenya Tree Coral](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/3/kenya-tree-coral)

Item ID: `3`

- Description: Kenya Tree Coral, scientifically known as Capnella sp., is a popular soft coral resembling a tree with branches hosting clusters of polyps. Found in the Indo-Pacific Ocean and the Red Sea, it's known for rapid growth and resilience, making it ideal for beginners.
- Scientific Name: Capnella sp.
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78° F pH: 8.1-8.4 Salinity: sg 1.023-1.026 Calcium: 350-450 PPM Magnesium: 1200-1350 PPM Nitrate: >0 PPM but <10 PPM Phosphorus: Close to 0 PPM
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Bottom of the tank in areas of low-to-moderate flow and low-to-moderate lighting
- Substrate Requirements: Does not require a specific substrate for attachment.
- Size at Maturity: Varies, can spread quickly.
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Acts as a natural filtration system; may help in reducing nitrates and phosphates.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★☆
- Special Care Instructions: Requires moderate lighting (75+ PAR) and moderate to high water flow. Prone to rapid propagation; may need regular fragging to control growth.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/nuq7cxjovuo1hrhz7hus.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/Live-Saltwater-Coral-Frag-Floating/dp/B08NFGKN4H](https://www.amazon.com/Live-Saltwater-Coral-Frag-Floating/dp/B08NFGKN4H?tag=listium03-20)

### 9. [Green Star Polyps](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/5/green-star-polyps)

Item ID: `5`

- Description: Green Star Polyps (Pachyclavularia violacea) is a vibrant and hardy soft coral species. Each polyp has a white center surrounded by eight long, thin green tentacles, creating a striking "daisy-like" appearance. They grow from a common stolon, which is a rubbery, mat-like base, usually purple or reddish in color, and spreads horizontally.
- Scientific Name: Pachyclavularia violacea
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-82°F (22-27.7°C) pH: 8.2-8.4 Specific Gravity: 1.023 to 1.025 Hardness: 8 to 12 dKH Calcium: 400 to 500 ppm Magnesium: 1250 to 1350 ppm
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Can be placed in various locations in a reef aquarium with moderate lighting and water flow
- Substrate Requirements: Encrusts on surfaces like rocks or aquarium glass.
- Size at Maturity: Individual polyps are around 0.5 inches
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Provides shelter for other organisms, contributes to the overall stability and biodiversity of the reef system.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★★
- Special Care Instructions: Moderate to high lighting is preferred. Moderate to high water flow is recommended to bring food to the polyps and prevent debris from settling on them. Regular feeding is not necessary as they contain zooxanthellae for photosynthesis but can be done to encourage growth.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/xs46assicztwpbfnbsgn.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/Live-Saltwater-Coral-Frag-Polyps/dp/B094T3LZYR](https://www.amazon.com/Live-Saltwater-Coral-Frag-Polyps/dp/B094T3LZYR?tag=listium03-20)

### 10. [Forest Green Acropora](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/6/forest-green-acropora)

Item ID: `6`

- Description: The Forest Green Acropora is named for its deep metallic green sheen that develops over its purple base. It is a type of small polyp stony (SPS) coral, highly valued in reef aquascaping for its impressive growth forms and vibrant color. While it's a challenging coral to keep, its beauty and structural complexity make it a sought-after species among experienced aquarists.
- Scientific Name: Acropora sp.
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 76° – 82 °F pH: 8.0 – 8.4 Salinity: 1.024 – 1.026 (1.025 preferred) Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH Calcium: 350 – 450 ppm Magnesium: 1250 – 1350 ppm Nitrates: <10 ppm Phosphates: <0.10 ppm
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Difficulty Level for Care: Difficult
- Placement: Middle to top regions of the aquarium
- Substrate Requirements: Typically mounted to a rock within the aquascape to allow natural growth
- Size at Maturity: Can form large, impressive structures
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Provides shelter and adds complexity to the reef structure
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★★
- Special Care Instructions: Requires high lighting (200+ PAR) and strong water movement. Sensitive to changes in water chemistry and benefits from direct feeding of small particle foods, such as rotifer-based foods with vitamin additives.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/wencupvb3hl23p1odei9.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B093WZC8WB](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B093WZC8WB?tag=listium03-20)

### 11. [Halloween Leptastrea](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/7/halloween-leptastrea)

Item ID: `7`

- Description: The Halloween Leptastrea is a unique and gorgeous encrusting coral that stands out with its vibrant coloration. It features a white base color, which gives the orange mouths and violet polyps a glowing appearance, reminiscent of a Jack O'Lantern. This variety of Leptastrea coral is known for its encrusting growth over rocks and is a member of the Faviidae family.
- Scientific Name: Leptastrea sp.
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 76° – 82 °F pH: 8.0 – 8.4 Salinity: 1.024 – 1.026 (1.025 preferred) Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH Calcium: 350 – 450 ppm Magnesium: 1250 – 1350 ppm Nitrates: <10 ppm Phosphates: <0.10 ppm
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Encrusts over rocks; does not require very intense lighting
- Substrate Requirements: No specific substrate requirement; grows over rocks in the aquarium
- Size at Maturity: Varies, forms a dome shape as it grows
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Adds color and visual interest, can help fill in gaps in the rockwork
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★★
- Special Care Instructions: Moderate to high water movement is recommended. Feeding with small particle foods like Oyster-Feast, mysis shrimp, or finely chopped meaty foods can benefit the coral.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/brj7xeqicyqh41fcgnww.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BN29TDX6/](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BN29TDX6/?tag=listium03-20)

### 12. [Captain Jerk Palythoas](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/9/captain-jerk-palythoas)

Item ID: `9`

- Description: Captain Jerk Palythoas are a unique and captivating coral with vibrant hues and captivating patterns. They feature an orange, green, yellow, and teal color pattern with long flowing skirts, making them a striking addition to any reef aquarium.
- Scientific Name: Palythoa heliodiscus
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C) Salinity: 1.024-1.026 pH: 8.0-8.4 Alkalinity: 8-10 dKH Calcium: 400-450 ppm Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Place on a stable surface with plenty of space to expand and grow.
- Substrate Requirements: No specific substrate requirement; can attach to rocks or other surfaces in the aquarium.
- Size at Maturity: Varies; can form clusters with multiple polyps.
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Adds vibrant colors and patterns to the reef landscape.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★★
- Special Care Instructions: Provide moderate to high-intensity lighting, ideally in the range of 75-150 PAR, and moderate water flow. While they are photosynthetic, occasional feeding with quality coral food is
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/bivywpjutyn60ikgtud0.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B095BPJTTG](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B095BPJTTG?tag=listium03-20)

### 13. [Red Parvispora Gracilaria](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/10/red-parvispora-gracilaria)

Item ID: `10`

- Description: Red Parvispora Gracilaria, also known as Gracilaria parvispora or Red Ogo, is a species of red macroalgae highly valued in reefkeeping. This deep red macroalgae is known for its ability to grow in a floating mass of fronds called thalli. It's used for nutrient export and as a natural food source for herbivorous fish and invertebrates.
- Scientific Name: Gracilaria parvispora
- Ideal Water Parameters: emperature: 72-78°F (22-25.6°C) Salinity: 1.023-1.026 pH: 8.1-8.4 Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Can be attached to rockwork/frag plugs or placed in a refugium where it can grow without being disturbed by fish.
- Substrate Requirements: Does not require a substrate; can form a holdfast to anchor itself.
- Size at Maturity: Can reach lengths up to 60 cm (23.6 inches).
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Excellent for nutrient export, particularly for removing nitrates and phosphates. Provides a natural food source for herbivorous fish.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★★
- Special Care Instructions: Requires moderate lighting and good water flow to mimic its natural habitat. Regular pruning is recommended to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Monitor nutrient levels, as this algae can help control nitrates and phosphates when kept in proper conditions.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/n4ykf2ioqdfqsjtvyizu.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099FMR7V1](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B099FMR7V1?tag=listium03-20)

### 14. [Caulerpa Mexicana](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/12/caulerpa-mexicana)

Item ID: `12`

- Description: Caulerpa Mexicana is a hardy variety of macroalgae with a deep rich green color and beautiful segmented fronds. It grows as small compact fronds in turbulent water but can extend into larger leaflets in calmer conditions, up to 6 inches tall. This species should be frequently pruned to divide the cells.
- Scientific Name: Caulerpa Mexicana
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25.6°C) Salinity: 1.023-1.026 pH: 8.0-8.4 Alkalinity: 8-10 dKH
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Suitable for refugiums or sumps; can be used in display tanks but requires careful management to prevent overgrowth.
- Substrate Requirements: Grows from a "runner," a root system that grows along the substrate. Plants grow up from the runner.
- Size at Maturity: Up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Helps control nutrient levels in the tank by absorbing excess nitrates and phosphates.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★☆
- Special Care Instructions: Requires regular pruning to control growth and prevent overrunning the tank. Can be safely superglued or tied down with fishing line to hold it in place. Be mindful of its potential to smother corals and release chemicals that may affect some coral species.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/cxu49cfmuwrncutn2dcc.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B091GX382V](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B091GX382V?tag=listium03-20)

### 15. [Halimeda Macro Algae Reef](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/13/halimeda-macro-algae-reef)

Item ID: `13`

- Description: Halimeda is a calcified green macroalgae known for its segmented, coin-like appearance, resembling small green coins glued end-to-end. It is a decorative and functional addition to reef tanks, providing natural filtration and aesthetic appeal. Halimeda is not typically eaten by fish or snails, making it an ideal display piece.
- Scientific Name: Halimeda sp.
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25.6°C) Salinity: 1.023-1.025 pH: 8.1-8.4 Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Difficulty Level for Care: Moderate
- Placement: Best suited for the display tank due to its great potential in aquascaping. Can be planted in a fine sandy substrate but can also survive in more coarse substrates.
- Substrate Requirements: Can be planted in fine sandy substrate but adaptable to more coarse substrates as well.
- Size at Maturity: Variable, can form chains of small, coin-like segments.
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Provides natural filtration, helps maintain water quality, and offers a habitat for small marine organisms.
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★☆
- Special Care Instructions: Requires moderate to high lighting. Keep within 350-450 ppm of calcium for best results. Monitor for signs of "going sexual" or sporulating, which can indicate declining health. Prune as needed to maintain shape and promote healthy growth.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/jopvmruthavzxpys2v4m.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B091HJWBYN](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B091HJWBYN?tag=listium03-20)

### 16. [Pineapple Acan Echinata Coral](https://listium.com/@aquaexplorer/99256/live-aquarium-plants-and-corals/15/pineapple-acan-echinata-coral)

Item ID: `15`

- Description: Pineapple Acan Echinata, part of the Acanthastrea genus, is a vibrant and hardy Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral. Known for its puffy polyps and deep, smooth interiors, it displays a range of beautiful patterns and colors including purple, blue, green, red, yellow, and orange. Its unique appearance and ease of care make it a popular choice for reef aquarists.
- Scientific Name: Acanthastrea echinata
- Ideal Water Parameters: Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C) pH: 8.0-8.4 Salinity: 1.024-1.026 Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH Calcium: 350-450 ppm Magnesium: 1200-1350 ppm Nitrates: 1-10 ppm Phosphates: 0.01-0.05 ppm
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Difficulty Level for Care: Easy
- Placement: Bottom of the tank, with at least 4-6 inches of space between it and other corals
- Substrate Requirements: Can be placed on the substrate or on rocks
- Size at Maturity: Polyps are .5 to 1.5 inches in diameter, with a coral structure of about 10 millimeters
- Benefits to the Aquarium Ecosystem: Adds vibrant colors and texture to the reef aquarium
- Visual Appeal: ★★★★★
- Special Care Instructions: Moderate lighting with a PAR between 80 and 150 is ideal. Feed 2-3 times a week with coral foods such as specialized pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, and zooplankton. Maintain stable water parameters and provide moderate water flow.
- Image: ![Image](https://img.listium.com/images/width=800,height=800,fit=scale-down,format=webp/l/meq3taqjihsu6ruyr3dt.png)
- GET IT HERE: [https://www.amazon.com/dp/B094V266PQ](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B094V266PQ?tag=listium03-20)