3 Head Duncan

Coral Information:

Type: LPS - Duncan
Size: 3 Head

Duncan coral (Duncanopsammia axifuga) is a stunning and beginner-friendly coral that makes a beautiful addition to any reef tank. Native to the waters of Australia and the Indo-Pacific, its long, flowing tentacles and vibrant colours add movement and life to marine aquariums. Follow this care guide to ensure your Duncan coral thrives in your tank.

Quick Care Overview

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

• Lighting: Moderate (PAR 75-150)

• Flow: Moderate

• Placement: Low to Middle in the tank

• Temperament: Peaceful

Tank Placement

Duncan corals prefer moderate flow and lighting. Place them in a low to mid-level area of your aquarium where they can sway gently in the water current. Avoid placing them in areas with high flow, as it can stress the coral and prevent its tentacles from extending fully.

Lighting Requirements

Duncan corals thrive under moderate lighting. LED lights that produce 75-150 PAR are ideal. If you’re using T5s or other lighting systems, ensure that the intensity isn’t too high to avoid bleaching the coral. Always acclimate new corals to your lighting to prevent stress.

Water Parameters

Maintaining stable water conditions is essential for the health of Duncan corals. Aim for the following parameters:

• Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C)

• pH: 8.1-8.4

• Salinity: 1.024-1.026 specific gravity

• Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH

• Calcium: 400-450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm

• Nitrates: <10 ppm

• Phosphates: <0.03 ppm

Feeding

Duncan corals are photosynthetic, but they benefit from supplemental feeding. They will readily accept meaty foods such as:

• Mysis shrimp

• Brine shrimp

• Plankton

• Specialized coral foods

Feed your Duncan coral 2-3 times per week using a turkey baster or coral feeder. Target feeding helps ensure the coral receives the nutrients it needs to grow and thrive.

Growth and Propagation

Duncan corals grow by forming new heads. With proper care, they can grow relatively quickly compared to other LPS (Large Polyp Stony) corals. Propagation is straightforward: use a coral fragging tool to carefully cut a branch with one or more heads, then secure it to a frag plug or rock with reef-safe glue.

Compatibility

Duncan corals are peaceful and do well in a community reef tank. Avoid placing them near aggressive corals or species with long, stinging tentacles, such as torch or galaxea corals. They coexist well with most reef-safe fish, invertebrates, and other corals.

Common Issues

• Poor Extension: Caused by excessive flow, inadequate lighting, or poor water quality. Check tank conditions and adjust placement if necessary.

• Bleaching: Usually due to excessive lighting or sudden changes in water parameters. Gradually acclimate your coral to any changes.

• Brown Jelly Disease: A bacterial infection that can rapidly kill the coral. Remove affected parts immediately and improve tank hygiene.

Final Tips

Duncan corals are resilient and forgiving, making them ideal for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. With the right care and attention, these corals will thrive and become a centre piece in your reef tank.