Duncan corals (Duncanopsammia axifuga) are one of the easiest LPS corals to keep. Their large, daisy-like polyps extend dramatically during the day and respond eagerly to target feeding. Duncans grow by budding new heads along their stalk, and a single frag can develop into a beautiful multi-headed colony within a year. They are extremely forgiving of beginner mistakes.
Fiche technique
| Type | LPS (Dendrophylliidae) |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| PAR range | 50–150 |
| Flow | Low–Medium |
| Feeding | Photosynthetic + target fed |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Aggression | Low |
| Placement | Lower to mid rock |
Besoins en lumière
Provide PAR levels of 50–150 µmol for optimal health and coloration. This coral is forgiving of imperfect lighting and adapts to a range of intensities. When first placing the coral, start with lower light intensity and gradually increase over 1–2 weeks to prevent light shock.
Spectrum matters as well: a mix of blue (420–480 nm) and white light produces the best fluorescence and growth. Many hobbyists run heavier blue spectrums to enhance coral fluorescence while maintaining enough PAR for photosynthesis.
Besoins en courant
Low to gentle flow is ideal. Too much flow will prevent polyps from fully extending and can cause tissue stress. Position the coral in a sheltered area behind rockwork or in a lower-flow zone of the tank. Some gentle movement is beneficial for gas exchange and waste removal, but the polyps should not be constantly whipped around.
Placement
Place this coral in the lower to mid rock area of your aquascape. This coral has low aggression and plays well with neighbors. Standard spacing of 1–2 inches is usually sufficient, though growth patterns should be monitored over time.
Secure the coral to rockwork using reef-safe gel super glue or epoxy. Ensure it is stable and won't topple—falling corals get stressed and damaged. Let the glue cure briefly before returning the frag to the tank.
Nourrissage
This coral benefits significantly from target feeding. Use a turkey baster or pipette to deliver small meaty foods directly to the polyps: finely chopped Mysis shrimp, Reef-Roids, or Benepets work well. Feed 2–3 times per week after lights dim, when tentacles are most extended. Target-fed specimens grow noticeably faster and display better coloration than those relying solely on photosynthesis.
Bouturage
Fragging LPS corals requires more care than soft corals. Use a Dremel rotary tool or bone cutters to separate heads along the skeletal divisions. Avoid cutting through live tissue whenever possible. Dip the fresh cut in iodine solution to prevent infection, then attach to a frag plug with super glue or epoxy. Recovery takes 1–4 weeks. Do not frag stressed or unhealthy colonies.
Problèmes courants
- Tissue recession or bleaching: Usually caused by unstable parameters, excessive light, or chemical aggression from neighboring corals. Investigate recent changes in lighting, dosing, or new coral additions.
- Failure to extend polyps: Check flow strength (too strong?), lighting intensity, and water quality. Recent dipping or transport stress can also cause temporary retraction.
- Pests: Inspect for flatworms, nudibranchs, or other parasites. A prophylactic coral dip (Coral Rx, Bayer) upon introduction prevents most pest issues.
- Slow growth: Ensure adequate feeding, stable alkalinity (8–11 dKH), calcium (400–450 ppm), and magnesium (1300–1400 ppm). SPS corals especially need stable, consistent alkalinity for skeleton building.
Questions fréquentes
Is this coral good for beginners?
Yes, this is an excellent beginner coral. It is forgiving of parameter fluctuations, adapts to various lighting and flow conditions, and recovers well from minor mistakes. It is a great confidence builder for new reef keepers.
What PAR level does this coral need?
Aim for PAR levels of 50–150 µmol at the coral's position. Use a PAR meter to verify actual light levels in your tank, as fixture specs and manufacturer claims often differ from real-world measurements.
How fast does this coral grow?
Growth rate is moderate. Factors that influence growth include lighting intensity, flow, feeding regimen, and stable water chemistry. Consistent alkalinity and calcium are the primary drivers of calcification rate in stony corals.
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