Caulastraea is a genus of colonial stony corals in the family Merulinidae, characterized by fleshy polyps growing from distinct tubular or trumpet-shaped corallites. Often known in the aquarium trade as candy cane or trumpet coral, Caulastraea attracts attention with its green, blue, brown, or striped coloration and expands its feeding tentacles to capture suspended food, particularly during the evening and night. In captivity, Caulastraea generally thrives under moderate lighting and gentle to moderate water flow, while stable salinity, temperature, alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium levels support skeletal growth and polyp expansion. Providing sufficient space from neighboring corals, avoiding the accumulation of debris between its branches, and feeding small meaty foods when necessary are important practices for maintaining a healthy and steadily growing colony. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
