Lobophytum pauciflorum

(Ehrenberg, 1834)

Devils Hand Coral

Range: Indo-West Pacific Ocean: Widespread.

Natural Environment: Inhabits shallow nutrient rich reef waters and lagoons experiencing moderate water flow at depths between 20 to 65 feet (6 - 20 m).

General Husbandry: These small to medium size photosynthetic soft corals do better under medium light and moderate water movement.

Does not usually require hand feeding, as its nutrient requirements are met with nutrient absorption from surrounding waters and photosynthesis.

Will somewhat tolerate hair algae.

Needs sufficient space between its neighbors.

A good coral for beginners.

Taxonomy:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Cnidaria

Class: Anthozoa

Subclass: Octocorallia

Order: Anlcyonacea

Suborder: Alcyoniina

Family: Alcyoniidae

Genus: Lobophytum

FYI: Easily propagated from cuttings.

Mariculture specimens available in the trade.

Experience Level: Beginner

Diet: Photosynthetic/Absorption of nutrients

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Aquarium Environment: Reef or fish-only aquarium

Coral Safe:With caution

Fish Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes

Acclimation Time: 30 minutes+

Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy

Calcium (Ca): 380 - 430 mg/l

Alkalinity: 2.5 - 3.0 meq/l

Phosphate (PO4): <0.05 mg/l

Magnesium (Mg): approx. 1350 mg/l (relate to specific gravity)

Strontium (Sr) 8 - 10 mg/l

Temperature Range: 72 - 81°F (22 - 27°C)

Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons

Lighting: PAR 350 - 450

Water Movement: WM 1 - 2

Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025

pH: 8.0 - 8.4

Iodine/Trace Elements Monitor/as necessary to maintain quality seawater.