Darth Maul Porites

Darth Maul Porites: The Deep Red and Neon Yellow Encruster

The Darth Maul Porites (Porites species) is a highly desirable and exceptionally hardy collector strain of Small Polyp Stony (SPS) coral. Porites species, often called "Finger Corals" or "Jewel Corals," are foundational corals known for their durability and dense, micro-polyp structure.

This specific strain is named after the iconic Star Wars character for its dramatic, high-contrast coloration. It typically features a base tissue of deep, rich red, maroon, or dark purple. This base is speckled with numerous, contrasting, minute polyps in bright neon yellow or chartreuse green. The combination creates an intense, speckled pattern that fluoresces brilliantly under blue-spectrum lighting.

The Darth Maul Porites commonly grows in an encrusting or columnar/finger-like morphology, depending on the specific species. It is considered an Easy to Moderate care SPS coral and is one of the toughest corals available for a new or established reef. It is slow to start but requires consistent water chemistry, moderate to high light, and ample water flow to thrive.

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 recommended and highly beneficial, especially for newly introduced frags. Its micro-polyps readily capture very fine particulate foods. Target feed 2-3 times per week with fine foods, such as cyclops, rotifers, or commercial coral powders and amino acid solutions.
• Reef Compatibility: It is Reef Safe and generally Passive. Porites lacks long sweeper tentacles and is non-aggressive. It is highly durable and resistant to many pests, but its slow initial growth means it should be protected from being stung or overgrown by aggressive LPS or fast-plating Montipora.
• Temperament: Peaceful toward fish and motile invertebrates, and Passive toward other corals. It should be positioned on mid-to-high rockwork where it receives Moderate to High PAR lighting (200-400 PAR) and moderate to strong, turbulent water flow to ensure proper nutrient exchange and polyp extension.
• Water Requirements: Requires stable parameters. The tank should be mature with very low nutrient levels (Nitrate < 5 ppm, Phosphate < 0.1 ppm). Critical parameters: Alkalinity (dKH 8.0-9.5), Calcium (400-450 ppm), and Magnesium (1300-1450 ppm).

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Porites sp. (Specific Strain)
• Primary Common Name: Darth Maul Porites
• Other Common Names: Red Base Yellow Polyp Porites, Sith Lord Porites
• Origin: Cultured/Maricultured (Originals from the Indo-Pacific)
• Max Size: Can form massive colonies or large branching fingers (12+ inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful (Passive, very slow initial growth)
• Diet: Photosynthetic and Carnivore (Benefits from fine particulate feeding)
• Minimum Tank Size: 40 Gallons (Established SPS or Mixed Reef)
• Reef Compatibility: Yes (Excellent, durable SPS option)
• Care Level: Easy to Moderate