Star Polyps

Briareum spp.

Animalia›Cnidaria›Anthozoa›Briareidae

📍 Indo-Pacific Reef Systems

Green star polyps (GSP) are one of the most popular beginner corals, forming rapid-spreading mats of bright green polyps. They are extremely hardy, tolerating a wide range of conditions. Their fast growth can become invasive, so placement should be considered carefully.

Size2"

Min Tank30g

peaceful

Zoneall

Tank Mates

Ocellaris Clownfish

Hardy reef fish that ignore corals and thrive in similar water parameters

excellent

Cleaner Shrimp

Beneficial invertebrate that maintains tank health without harming polyps

excellent

Nerite Snail

Peaceful algae grazer that won't damage or consume coral tissue

good

Astrea Snail

Effective algae control without predatory behavior toward corals

good

Neon Goby

Small, reef-safe fish that benefits tank health and ignores corals

excellent

Common Diseases

Coral Bleaching

Symptoms

Loss of green coloration, polyps appear white or translucent, reduced polyp extension

Treatment

Improve water quality, reduce light intensity temporarily, ensure stable temperature (24-27°C), maintain proper alkalinity and calcium levels

Brown Jelly Disease

Symptoms

Brown, slimy film covering polyps, rapid tissue recession, foul odor

Treatment

Isolate affected coral, perform 50% water change, increase water flow, remove affected tissue with clean tools, treat with iodine-based coral dip if severe

Polyp Recession

Symptoms

Polyps fail to extend, visible skeleton exposure, slow growth

Treatment

Check water parameters (pH, alkalinity, calcium), improve lighting, reduce stressors, ensure adequate microplankton feeding, maintain stable conditions

Pest Infestation (Nudibranchs/Flatworms)

Symptoms

Visible small organisms on coral, tissue damage, polyp avoidance

Treatment

Manual removal with tweezers, increase water flow to dislodge pests, consider dipping in freshwater or specialized coral treatments, quarantine if widespread