Mother Of All Galaxea

Mother Of All Galaxea: The Polychromatic Spiky Coral

The Mother Of All Galaxea (MOA Galaxea) is an extremely rare and highly prized collector strain of Galaxea coral (Galaxea fascicularis), a type of Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral. Galaxea, commonly known as "Star Corals," are unique due to their dense colony formation and long, spiky septa that give them a distinctive, aggressive texture.

This specific strain is celebrated for its incredible, multi-layered coloration, which typically includes an icy blue or deep purple base skeleton contrasted by neon green or chartreuse tentacles and, most notably, bright yellow, orange, or reddish tips on the septa and tentacles. The unique combination makes it a spectacular showpiece.

The MOA Galaxea grows in a massive, hemispherical, or encrusting morphology with corallites (polyps) that remain distinct. It is considered a Hardy LPS coral, often growing rapidly once established. However, maintaining its maximum color requires moderate light and stable, clean water parameters.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This coral is a Mixotroph, meaning it is primarily Photosynthetic (deriving most energy from symbiotic algae) but is also a capable Carnivore. Its large tentacles actively feed.
• Feeding: Supplemental target feeding is highly beneficial for faster growth and robust polyp extension. The tentacles readily capture food. Feed 2-3 times per week with meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, cyclops, or fine coral foods like Reef Roids and amino acid solutions. Feed in the evening when tentacles are fully extended.
• Reef Compatibility: It is Reef Safe but is Extremely Aggressive. Galaxea is one of the most aggressive LPS corals. It extends long, clear sweeper tentacles, often several inches long (up to 6 inches or more), especially at night, which possess a powerful sting. It is absolutely crucial to give the MOA Galaxea a large area of clearance (6+ inches) from all neighboring corals.
• Temperament: Peaceful toward fish and motile invertebrates, but Extremely Aggressive/Territorial toward other corals. It should be positioned on mid-to-lower rockwork where it receives moderate, indirect light and moderate, turbulent water flow to keep the tentacles clean and extended.
• Water Requirements: Requires stable parameters. The tank should be mature with low to moderate nutrient levels (Nitrate 5-10 ppm, Phosphate 0.05-0.1 ppm). Critical parameters: Alkalinity (dKH 8.0-9.5), Calcium (400-450 ppm), and Magnesium (1250-1350 ppm). Demands Moderate PAR lighting (100-250 PAR).

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Galaxea fascicularis (Specific Strain)
• Primary Common Name: Mother Of All Galaxea (MOA Galaxea)
• Other Common Names: MOA Star Coral, Polychromatic Galaxea
• Origin: Cultured/Maricultured (Originals from the Indo-Pacific)
• Max Size: Can grow into large, dense colonies (12+ inches)
• Temperament: Extremely Aggressive (Uses long, potent sweeper tentacles)
• Diet: Photosynthetic and Carnivore (Benefits greatly from target feeding)
• Minimum Tank Size: 40 Gallons (Established reef)
• Reef Compatibility: Yes, but requires extensive spacing (6+ inches).
• Care Level: Moderate