Orange Cynarina Coral – A Bright and Bold Centrepiece for Your Reef Aquarium
The Orange Cynarina Coral (Cynarina lacrymalis) delivers stunning contrast and natural elegance to your aquascape. Its oversized, fleshy polyp displays glowing orange tones with subtle radial folds and a highly defined oral disc. Under actinic or blue LED lighting, the coral’s semi-translucent surface takes on a luminous quality, further enhancing its ornamental value.
Native to the Indo-Pacific, this solitary coral expands significantly during the day, making it ideal for open spaces near the substrate or gently sloped rock formations. While non-aggressive by nature, its semi-aggressive feeding response requires ample spacing from neighbouring corals to avoid contact.
Lighting Requirements:
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Thrives in low to moderate lighting (PAR 75–125)
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Intense orange tones are most vibrant under actinic or blue spectrum LEDs
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Should be placed away from strong direct light; acclimate gradually if needed
Water Flow:
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Requires gentle, indirect water movement
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Excessive flow may cause tissue stress or inhibit full polyp expansion
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Ideal placement is on the substrate in calm zones
Aquarium Compatibility:
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Suitable for nano, medium, and large reef aquariums
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Semi-aggressive coral – ensure at least 5–10 cm spacing from other corals
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Thrives in tanks with consistent temperature, stable parameters, and low nutrient fluctuation
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Compatible with peaceful tank mates and reef-safe invertebrates
Feeding Information:
Though capable of photosynthesis, this coral shows excellent growth and colouration with occasional supplemental feeding.
Recommended feedings include:
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Mysis shrimp
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Enriched brine shrimp
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Coral-specific blended diets
Feed 1–2 times per week, preferably during evening hours when tentacles are extended.
Why Choose the Orange Cynarina Coral?
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Striking Visual Impact: Vibrant orange tones and a fluid, organic form
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Easy to Maintain: Hardy and forgiving under appropriate conditions
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Dynamic Display: Expands during the day and glows under reef lighting
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Versatile Placement: Perfect for open-bottom or low rock areas
FAQs:
Q: How large does the Orange Cynarina grow?
A: This coral can expand to 10–15 cm in diameter in ideal conditions.
Q: Can it be kept with other LPS corals?
A: Yes, as long as sufficient space is provided to prevent contact.
Q: What are the ideal water parameters?
A: Maintain temperature between 24–27°C, salinity at 1.025, pH of 8.1–8.4, and alkalinity between 8–12 dKH.
Q: How often should I feed it?
A: Feeding 1–2 times weekly is sufficient for optimum colour and growth.