Ultra Volcanic Clove Polyp

Ultra Volcanic Clove Polyp, Clavularia sp., is a colonial octocoral known for its delicate flower-like polyps and eight feathery tentacles. This colony displays dusty rose to reddish-purple polyps with pale green centers and intense fluorescent orange-red highlights running along portions of the tentacles, creating the dramatic “volcanic” appearance reflected in its name. Clavularia colonies spread across hard substrate through a connected basal mat, from which individual polyps extend into the water column. Like other photosynthetic octocorals, these polyps contain symbiotic dinoflagellates that provide much of their energy, while the feathery tentacles can also capture fine suspended plankton and organic particles. Because species-level identification within Clavularia cannot be confirmed reliably from appearance alone, Clavularia sp. is the scientifically appropriate designation.

Care Guide: Clavularia sp. generally performs well under low to moderate reef lighting with moderate, variable water movement. Enough flow should be provided to keep debris from settling on the colony and to produce gentle movement through the feathery polyps without constantly flattening them. Place on stable rockwork where the colony can receive consistent light and circulation. Because clove polyps can spread across adjacent surfaces, placement on an isolated rock can help control growth if desired. Maintain stable temperature and salinity along with consistent alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, nitrate, and phosphate. Most nutrition is supplied through photosynthesis, though fine planktonic foods and suspended organic material may provide supplemental nutrition. Allow space from neighboring corals so the colony can expand without direct contact.