HGC Fat head dendro Colony

Fat Head Dendro, (Dendrophyllia Fistulata)

The Fat Head Dendro is a type of large-polyp stony (LPS) coral known for its big, fleshy polyps and bright orange color. It is a variety of the coral species Dendrophyllia, which is closely related to Tubastraea (Sun Coral).

 Physical Characteristics

• Polyp Size: Large, thick “fat” polyps compared to regular dendros

• Shape: Individual round heads growing from a branching skeleton

• Color: Usually bright orange or yellow-orange

• Tentacles: Long feeding tentacles that extend outward

• Colony Growth: Multiple heads grow from a hard calcium skeleton

 Natural Habitat

Fat Head Dendro corals are found in the Indo-Pacific Ocean, including reefs near:

• Indonesia

• Philippines

• Australia

They usually grow in deeper reef areas or shaded zones, often under ledges where sunlight is limited.

 Feeding

Unlike many corals, Fat Head Dendros do not rely on photosynthesis. They are non-photosynthetic (NPS) corals and must be fed regularly.

Common foods include:

• Mysis shrimp

• Brine shrimp

• Reef roids or coral foods

• Small pieces of seafood

Polyps usually extend their feeding tentacles at night or when food is detected.

 Aquarium Care

• Lighting: Low light (light not required)

• Water Flow: Moderate flow

• Feeding: Must be fed several times per week

• Placement: Rock structures or lower areas of the tank

• Difficulty: Moderate due to regular feeding requirements

 Interesting Fact

The name “Fat Head Dendro” comes from the large, swollen polyps that are noticeably bigger than standard dendrophyllia corals, making them highly desirable in reef aquariums.