BirdNest Coral

BirdNest Coral is one of the most visually striking and rewarding SPS (Small Polyp Stony) corals available to reef keepers, known for its intricate branching structure and vibrant color variations. For Canadian reefers, especially hobbyist to intermediate-level aquarists, understanding how to care for this coral can make all the difference between a thriving centerpiece and a stressed-out frag. This guide from Reef Supplies Canada will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully maintain BirdNest Coral in your reef aquarium.

Image submitted by: Blake from Grand Falls, New Brunswick

What is BirdNest Coral? BirdNest Coral, scientifically known as Seriatopora, is a fast-growing SPS coral native to Indo-Pacific reef regions. It's renowned for its thin, bird's nest-like branches and comes in colors ranging from neon green to pink, purple, and yellow, depending on lighting and water quality. As a hardy SPS coral, it’s often recommended for reef keepers ready to take the next step beyond soft corals or LPS (Large Polyp Stony) species.

Ideal Water Parameters for BirdNest Coral Maintaining stable, clean water is the cornerstone of successful SPS coral keeping. BirdNest Coral prefers the following parameters: Temperature: 24–26°C (75–79°F); Salinity: 1.025 SG; pH: 8.1–8.4; Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH; Calcium: 400–450 ppm; Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm; Nitrate: < 5 ppm; Phosphate: < 0.03 ppm. To monitor and maintain these levels, regular testing is a must. At Reef Supplies, we offer a variety of reliable test kits, dosing pumps, and reef additives to support stable water chemistry, including brands like Hanna, Red Sea, and AquaForest.

Lighting Requirements BirdNest Coral requires strong, stable lighting to maintain coloration and promote growth. A PAR range of 250–350 is typically ideal. High-quality LED reef lights, like those from Kessil, AI or Ecotech Radion, offer customizable spectrums and intensity suited for SPS corals. Ensure the coral is acclimated to new lighting gradually to avoid bleaching.

Flow Needs Flow is another critical factor. BirdNest Coral thrives in high, turbulent flow which mimics natural reef conditions and helps keep its branches free of detritus. We recommend wavemakers or controllable pumps such as the Jebao SLW or Nero series, which are available at Reef Supplies and are known for their adjustable flow profiles. Place the coral where flow is strong but not so direct that it causes tissue recession.

Placement Tips in the Reef Aquarium Due to its demanding light and flow requirements, BirdNest Coral should be placed in the upper third of the aquarium. Ensure it has ample room to grow and isn’t shaded by other corals. It can grow quickly and outcompete nearby corals for space and light, so plan its position with future growth in mind. Use epoxy or super glue gel to secure the frag to your rockscape to avoid accidental falls.

Common Challenges and How to Handle Them Like many SPS corals, BirdNest Coral can be sensitive to fluctuations. Rapid changes in alkalinity, calcium, or temperature can cause tissue loss. Keep a consistent maintenance schedule and automate dosing when possible. Watch for pests like red bugs or flatworms, and quarantine new frags before introducing them to your display tank. Also, be mindful of bacterial infections that can lead to rapid tissue necrosis (RTN); act quickly with fragging and iodine dips if symptoms appear.

Recommended Equipment for BirdNest Coral Success Investing in the right equipment is essential. At Reef Supplies Canada, we recommend: High-output reef LEDs (AI, Ecotech, ReefBreeders); Reliable test kits and dosers (Hanna, GHL, Red Sea); High-flow wavemakers (Jebao SLW, Nero, Reef Octopus); Protein skimmers for nutrient control; Automatic top-off systems to keep salinity stable. These tools simplify reefkeeping and give your BirdNest Coral the stable environment it needs to flourish.

Conclusion and Soft Call-to-Action BirdNest Coral is a rewarding addition to any reef aquarium, offering stunning visuals and rapid growth. While it requires a bit more attention than beginner corals, the results are well worth the effort. With the right equipment and a bit of know-how, you can create an ideal environment where your BirdNest thrives. Browse our full selection of reef aquarium supplies today at Reef Supplies Canada or reach out to our team for help choosing the best gear for your setup.