Stylophora wellsi — Practical Care Guide (SPS)
A concise guide with two photographs (macro + micro) to help identify and care for Stylophora wellsi. Focused on stability, moderate–high PAR, random flow, and STN/RTN prevention.
Introduction
An SPS coral in the family Pocilloporidae (Scheer, 1964). It has low aggression, a moderate growth rate, and is sensitive to contact with other corals. It requires stable parameters, moderate–strong flow and moderate–high PAR. Suitable for mature aquariums with effective nutrient export.
Experience — “Stable > perfect: schedule small adjustments and avoid alkalinity/temperature swings.”
Identification and Taxonomy
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Stylophora wellsi (Scheer, 1964) |
| Family | Pocilloporidae |
| Type | SPS (small-polyp stony coral) |
| Placement | Middle–upper area; moderate–strong light and flow. |
Habitat and Setup
Exposed reef slopes and crests with sustained water exchange. Avoid persistent shading and detritus buildup at the base.
Water Parameters
| Parameter | Practical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–28 °C | Avoid >30 °C (bleaching). |
| Salinity | sg 1.023–1.026 | Daily stability > precision. |
| Alkalinity (KH) | 7–9 dKH | Avoid changes >0.5 dKH/day. |
| Calcium (Ca) | 400–450 ppm | Continuous calcification. |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 1200–1350 ppm | Ionic stability. |
| Nitrate (NO3) | ≤5–10 ppm | Low but measurable. |
| Phosphate (PO4) | 0.02–0.05 ppm | Avoid prolonged “0” readings under intense lighting. |
| pH | 8.1–8.4 | Minimal fluctuation. |
What Worked / What Did Not
What Worked
- Automated dosing (KH/Ca/Mg) + small water changes.
- Activated carbon/ozone for clear water.
What Did Not
- Abrupt adjustments on the same day.
- Constant laminar flow (detritus buildup).
Lighting (PAR and Spectrum)
| Factor | Target | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PAR | 180–320 μmol·m−2·s−1 | Acclimate when exceeding 300–350. |
| Spectrum | Blue (~450 nm) | Photosynthesis + chromoproteins. |
| Photoperiod | 10–12 h | Gradual sunrise/sunset ramps. |
Flow (Hydrodynamics)
Moderate–strong, random/turbulent ≫ laminar. Avoid direct jets; variable flow provides oxygenation and clears detritus.
Feeding (Heterotrophic Support)
Primarily phototrophic through its association with Symbiodiniaceae, but benefits from nanoplankton, amino acids, and coral foods 1–2×/week (broadcast feeding with reduced flow), especially under stress.
What Worked / What Did Not
What Worked
- Moderate doses with controlled nutrient export.
- Nighttime feeding with the skimmer running.
What Did Not
- Chronic overfeeding → high PO4/NO3 levels.
Fragging and Propagation
Responds well to fragging/microfragmentation. Maintain active flow after cutting and keep surfaces clean to support healing.
Health (STN/RTN and the Microbiome)
| Condition | Signs | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| STN (slow tissue necrosis) | Progressive tissue loss | Check alkalinity/temperature, improve flow, and trim away dead tissue. |
| RTN (rapid tissue necrosis) | Rapid tissue sloughing | Frag immediately; isolate; maintain full stability. |
| Bleaching / Vibrio | Discoloration, mucus | Quarantine; stable nutrient levels; probiotics under investigation. |
Scientific Evidence (2018–2025)
Water and Stability
- Practical ranges in SPS systems: T° 24–28 °C; sg 1.023–1.026; KH 7–9; Ca 400–450; Mg 1200–1350; NO₃ ≤5–10; PO₄ 0.02–0.05; pH 8.1–8.4. ScienceDirect
Lighting
- PAR 180–320; a blue emphasis at ~450 nm; a 10–12 h photoperiod improves coloration and photosynthesis. Frontiers
Flow
- Random flow > laminar flow: improves exchange and polyp extension, reduces deposits. Nature
Microbiome and Health
- A stable microbiome (e.g., Endozoicomonas) reduces STN/RTN; probiotics containing Alteromonas/Pseudoalteromonas are being evaluated. Wiley
Fragging
- Microfragmentation with good survival in clear water and stable alkalinity/calcium levels. PLOS
Further Reading
More information at Pasionreef and AtlasReef.
Getting started with SPS? Explore our SPS Corals section.
If you are fine-tuning your parameters, our article on Marine Aquarium Bioindicators may help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should Stylophora wellsi be placed?
In the middle–upper part of the aquarium, with moderate–strong lighting, random flow, and very stable conditions.
What PAR and spectrum work best?
PAR 180–320 μmol·m−2·s−1; blue light at ~450 nm; smooth ramps and gradual acclimation.
How can STN/RTN and bleaching be prevented?
Avoid alkalinity/temperature swings; maintain random flow; frag and isolate if RTN occurs; check nutrients and the microbiome.
Conclusion
With two photos and a clear structure, S. wellsi is well documented: prioritize stability, random flow, and gradual adjustments.
Images: AtlasReef Media Library (original/AI-generated, royalty-free). · Guide written by AtlasReef.