Common names: boulder coral, Christmas tree worm rock
Natural origin: Indo-Pacific
Sensitivity (Level 3 to 4): These corals can be quite unforgiving and intolerant. They are not impossible to keep but demand well established aquariums and experienced care.
Feeding: A small polyped coral, they have poor prey capture ability and feed only on very small particle food.  In a well fed tank with a variety of food, additional feeding might not be necessary.
Lighting (Level 7 to 10): Though adaptable to some degree, these corals usually need more intense lighting conditions. The ideal lighting for any particular coral will depend on the species and/or the depth and clarity of the water where it was collected or cultured. As with any zooxanthellate coral, coloration can change in response to changing lighting conditions. As always, sudden changes in lighting conditions can result in bleaching. Be sure to acclimate properly.
Water flow: Strong, turbulent water flow is important for effective feeding, good health and to prevent sediment damage.
Placement: Not a particularly aggressive coral in captivity, they can easily be overgrown by more aggressive tank mates.
General: In the wild, Porites corals grow to be quite massive, some being several thousand years old.  To increase chances of survival, keep only in well established aquariums that are at least a year old. Steady tank parameters and calcium levels of at least 420 ppm will promote coral health and growth.