What Corals Move in a Saltwater Tank?

Among the many species of live coral, there are many varieties that will provide natural movement in your tank, and are endlessly fascinating to watch. Using live corals gives your fish a safe place to hide and an environment reflective of their natural habitat. Live coral is a vital component in a healthy reef system and important in keeping a thriving saltwater aquarium.

  1. Types of Live Coral

    • The types of live coral that will move in a saltwater tank include sea fans, zoanthids, polyps, mushroom coral, anemones and sponges. Live coral is further categorized into stony coral, soft coral and deep sea coral. Sponges are one of the oldest inhabitants of the coral reef ecosystem. They are found in a multitude of colors and shapes, and provide shelter for small animals, fish, shrimp and crabs. Most varieties of coral will change shape and color depending on their environment.

    Anemones

    • Anemones provide the most movement in a saltwater tank. They are one of the most unique and interesting types of live coral. The stingers of some types of anemone can be painful if touched or kill small fish. However, some species of fish live harmoniously with them. The anemone provides protection from predators and the fish removes parasites from the anemone. Speak with an aquatic specialist before keeping saltwater fish and anemones together.

    Soft Coral

    • Although not as animated, soft coral will provide your saltwater tank with natural movement without the risk of harming your fish. Soft corals include sea whips and sea fans which have soft, bendable arms resembling a tree or plant. This type of coral has a hard core, a fleshy outer body and extending polyps. Soft corals transform themselves throughout their development, becoming dormant, retracting their polyps and shedding their outer layers before re-flowering. Generally, soft corals are recommended for the beginning saltwater hobbyist.

    Polyps

    • Corals that move independently have polyps. Nearly all live coral contains small polyps, each having its own mouth and stomach, surrounded by tentacles. The polyp uses the tentacles for protection, eating and clearing away debris. A coral polyp is a spineless animal, called an invertebrate. One coral tree, branch or mound is covered with thousands of polyps. They are typically nocturnal and will extend their tentacles only at night to feed.

    Considerations

    • Ensure that the fish and live coral you choose are compatible and easy to cultivate, while keeping your fish safe and creating a healthy, thriving environment. If you plan to keep a reef-only aquarium, be aware that some types of coral are not compatible and others should be placed within a specified range away from each other. Certain varieties of coral require different types of lighting, filtration, water quality and water movement. Before setting up your saltwater tank, visit a local aquarium shop and speak with a saltwater specialist.