Velvet Bowerbanki (40)

Velvet Bowerbanki Coral Care | The Happy Reef

Velvet Bowerbanki is a chunky, fleshy LPS coral with large individual polyps and a soft, almost velvety appearance when fully expanded. Bowerbanki are particularly attractive as they mature, with neighbouring polyps developing into a dense colony while retaining their distinctive round, inflated shape.

The familiar aquarium name "Bowerbanki" comes from its former classification as Acanthastrea bowerbanki. The species has since been moved to the genus Homophyllia, making its currently accepted scientific name Homophyllia bowerbanki. Like "Acans", however, the old name remains firmly established in the reef hobby.

Scientific Name: Homophyllia bowerbanki (formerly Acanthastrea bowerbanki)

PAR: 75?150

Flow: Low to moderate. Gentle, indirect movement allows the fleshy polyps to expand without being continually pushed against their skeleton.

Placement: Low Third

Feeding: Beneficial. Bowerbanki are photosynthetic but are also enthusiastic feeders. Individual polyps readily accept mysis, finely chopped meaty foods and suitable LPS foods. Occasional target feeding can support good inflation, growth and the development of new polyps.

Care Notes: Give this coral room around its colony as Bowerbanki can be aggressive towards neighbouring corals. Their large fleshy polyps can also be damaged by sharp rockwork or excessively strong flow. Stable alkalinity, calcium and magnesium, moderate lighting and regular feeding make them relatively straightforward LPS corals once established.