Description
ORA Vargas Cespitularia
While soft corals are generally a good choice for beginning reef aquarists, the usual complaint is that they lack flashy coloration. One very notable exception to this is the ORA Vargas Cespitularia. This prolific and very beautiful Cespitularia has been a staple at ORA for years now. It was originally acquired by them from the well-known hobbyist and author Tony Vargas. Once thought to belong to the genus Efflatounaria, it was sent out for scientific identification by Michael Janes of AquaTouch in Arizona (using comparative morphological analysis on three different ORA Xeniids); results placed them all in Cespitularia erecta. Verification through genetic testing, however, is yet to be conducted. The stalks of this strain are of an eye-catching iridescent blue-purple. The polyps are covered with a splash of pale golden green. The Vargas Cespitularia forms colonies that spread over the rock and even substrate by sending out a runner-like stolon. It is the hardiest strain of its species and a very easily maintained coral in general.
ORA Vargas Cespitularia may be placed at all levels in the tank with low-high lighting and moderate-strong water flow. See below for more information.
Size and Care Requirements
- Purchase Size: ~1″ (length)
- Max Size: 1″ (length)
- Water Parameters: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.2-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
- Color: Purple and gold.
- Reef-Safe: Yes
- Diet: Zooxanthellate
The Benefits of Farmed ORA Vargas Cespitularia
Captive-bred livestock offers a huge advantage over wild-caught specimens. Because it is cultured in captivity, it is better adapted to living in an aquarium, tends to be more disease resistant and harbors fewer pests. It is also better able to handle shipping/acclimation stress! By purchasing captive-bred cespits, you support the aquaculture of marine organisms and help to make our hobby more sustainable.
100% Alive on Arrival (AoA) Guarantee
We guarantee that every ORA Vargas Cespitularia we sell will be Alive On Arrival and in great health. Should it arrive in any other state, we will replace it free of charge (including shipping). If the total livestock loss is less than $40, we will issue store credit. For more information, please also visit our 100% Alive On Arrival Guarantee
