Paragoniastrea australensis

PARAGONIASTREA

The Paragoniastrea genus has three known and accepted species, at least at this time. It had previously been listed under Goniastrea and Platygyra and even lumped in under the general term of “brain/maze corsals”but was recently separated in 2014 into a separate genus of Paragoniastrea. There has been much debate as to who or what belongs in this genus but for now, they have landed on species: P. australensis, P. deformis, and P. russeli. Paragoniastrea are typically encrusting species with thick steep walls which often leads to them being called maze corals. The septa are even and regularly spaced and extend over the valley walls into the next septa. They are finely toothed and have paliform lobes (which is what makes up the ridges of the walls.)

Caring for Paragoniastrea corals requires time and patience. These corals can be slow growing and will eventually need a lot of space.  They require low - medium light and flow. An occasional feeding of things such as mysis, calanus, pellets and even phytoplankton have been shown to increase growth rates but is not necessary.

WATER CHEMISTRY

Paragoniastresa corals prefer dirtier waters, making them great for beginner tanks. You will know your Paragoniastrea is happy when they are slightly puffy and colorful. While we have our preferred parameters for Alkalinity, Phosphate, and Nitrate, Paragoniastrea will do far better in your system if you just focus on keeping the water chemistry stable. If your Alkalinity, Phosphate, or Nitrate is out of line, our recommendation is to get it back to your target levels as slowly as possible.

The parameters we aim for are:

We maintain these levels by use of dosing pumps, with Brightwell Aquatics Reef Code A and Reef Code B.

It's important to understand that these are the levels that we aim for in our LPS system. However, that doesn't mean they are the right levels for your system. All aquariums are different and your system may naturally fall on a different balance. You're better off working with the balance your system tends towards than trying to force the same levels that we run.

FLOW

In terms of flow, Paragoniastrea corals tend to like lower-moderate flow. 

Too much flow can agitate the coral, causing them to recede into their skeleton. The perfect flow will have your Paragoniastrea looking slightly puffy and colorful. 

LIGHTING

Paragoniastrea are among the less is more group when it comes to lighting. We always recommend placing them mid - lower on the rockwork where they won’t receive an abundance of light. These corals can bleach when exposed to too much which is why we recommend the lower levels.. There are some exceptions as you are able to “train” your coral to tolerate a higher PAR, but this is an incredibly slow process. We recommend keeping it in its natural state on the dark side.

Too much light can cause Paragoniastrea to bleach and turn white, if this happens lower the coral in your tank or decrease your light intensity. This is a slow process, however, assuming it has good flow and your water chemistry is stable it will regain its colour.

• Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-78 °F)
• Salinity: 1.026 SG, 35 ppt
• PH: 8.1-8.4
• Ammonia: 0 ppm
• Nitrite: 0 ppb
• Nitrate: 3-15ppm
• Phosphate: 0.03-0.15 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8 dKH
• Calcium: 440 ppm
• Magnesium: 1320 ppm

Temperature Match

Float the sealed bag containing the coral in your tank for 15-20 minutes. This allows the coral to gradually reach the same temperature as your aquarium, minimizing temperature-related stress.

Prepare and Dip Coral

To ensure the health and safety of your new coral, prepare a dip solution using tank water and a coral dip product, following the dip’s instructions for dosage and timing. This precautionary dip helps protect your tank by eliminating any potential hitchhikers. Keep an eye on the coral during the process to confirm it’s responding well.

Rinse in Tank Water

After the dip, rinse the coral thoroughly in a separate container filled with clean tank water. This step removes any residual dip solution, preventing it from entering your display tank and ensuring the coral is safe to be introduced.

Introduce Coral

Carefully position the coral in your tank, ideally on a rock or suitable location based on the coral’s needs. Make sure the placement allows proper flow and lighting according to the coral species. Monitor the coral for the next few hours to ensure it adjusts well.

At New Dawn Aquaculture, we take every step to ensure your marine life arrives alive and thriving!

Carefully Packed for a Safe Journey

• Livestock is hand-packed in sealed oxygen-filled bags with fresh saltwater.
• Insulated coolers with heat or ice packs keep conditions stable, regardless of weather.
• Built to handle up to 48 hours in transit.

Fast Delivery, Every Time

We ship FedEx Priority Overnight so your marine life arrives the next day, reducing stress and maximizing health.

Our Promise

Healthy, vibrant marine life delivered to your door, guaranteed. Shop with peace of mind—your aquarium deserves the best!

At New Dawn Aquaculture, we guarantee that your livestock arrives alive and healthy—no exceptions. Here's how it works:

What’s Covered

 All shipped livestock, including corals, fish, inverts, and live foods.

How It Works

1. Be present for delivery and follow our acclimation guide.
2. Report any issues within 48 hours of delivery by emailing info@ndaquaculture.ca with clear photos of the unopened livestock.

Resolution Options

We’ll offer a replacement (if available), store credit, or refund based on your preference.

Limitations

1. Issues caused by acclimation errors, improper handling, or poor water parameters are not covered.
2. Claims submitted after 48 hours are ineligible.

Your satisfaction is our priority! Contact us anytime at info@ndaquaculture.ca or 780-860-9103.

New Dawn Aquaculture – Quality Marine Life Delivered.