Birds of Paradise Seriatopora

Birds of Paradise Seriatopora: The Neon Green and Pink Thicket

The Birds of Paradise Seriatopora (BOP) (Seriatopora hystrix or similar species) is an iconic, highly prized collector strain of Small Polyp Stony (SPS) coral. Seriatopora, commonly known as "Bird's Nest Corals," are recognized for their fine, dense, and sharp branching structure, and are a staple in most SPS-dominant reef tanks.

This specific strain is one of the most famous collector corals, named for its stunning polychromatic display. It typically features a base tissue of bright neon green or yellow-green. This base color transitions dramatically into intense pink, purple, or lavender tips at the growth points. The polyps themselves are often a contrasting bright yellow or green, completing the exotic tri-color profile.

The Birds of Paradise Seriatopora grows in a dense, highly branched, and bushy morphology, forming intricate thickets. It is considered a Moderate to Advanced care SPS coral. It is fast-growing but requires meticulous water quality, high light, and extremely strong, turbulent flow to maintain its health, density, and vibrant colors.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This coral is primarily Photosynthetic (deriving most energy from symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae) but is also an opportunistic Carnivore.
• Feeding: Supplemental feeding is highly beneficial for accelerating growth and ensuring the deepest color saturation. Its small polyps readily capture fine particulate foods. Target feed 2-3 times per week with very fine foods, such as cyclops, rotifers, or commercial coral powders and amino acid solutions.
• Reef Compatibility: It is Reef Safe and generally Passive. It lacks potent sweeper tentacles, but due to its fast and dense growth, it can easily shade out or physically irritate neighboring corals. Ensure it has ample space (3-4 inches) and vertical clearance.
• Temperament: Peaceful toward fish and motile invertebrates, and Passive toward other corals. It should be positioned on high rockwork where it receives High PAR lighting (300-450+ PAR) and strong, chaotic, turbulent water flow. This high flow is essential to prevent detritus buildup within the dense branches, which can lead to tissue necrosis.
• Water Requirements: Requires extreme stability and low nutrients. The tank should be mature with very low nutrient levels (Nitrate < 5 ppm, Phosphate < 0.1 ppm). Consistency in alkalinity is paramount. Critical parameters: Alkalinity (dKH 8.0-9.5), Calcium (400-450 ppm), and Magnesium (1300-1450 ppm).

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Seriatopora hystrix (Specific Strain)
• Primary Common Name: Birds of Paradise Seriatopora (BOP)
• Other Common Names: BOP Bird's Nest, Green Base Pink Tip Bird's Nest
• Origin: Cultured/Maricultured (Originals from the Indo-Pacific)
• Max Size: Forms large, dense, bushy colonies (8+ inches tall/wide)
• Temperament: Peaceful (Fast-growing and requires physical space)
• Diet: Photosynthetic and Carnivore (Benefits from target feeding)
• Minimum Tank Size: 40 Gallons (Established SPS or Mixed Reef)
• Reef Compatibility: Yes (Excellent, fast-growing SPS option)
• Care Level: Moderate to Advanced