what is this?

[john007]

bought at LFS they didn't know the name I don't either. any clues? much appreciated

[Sea~Horse~Whisperer]

goniopora would be my guess

[john007]

thanks Seahorse did a google on the name and I think you are right

[lReef lKeeper]

yup goniopora stokesi is tha particular one ... common name of "flowerpot coral". that is where my wife got her screename on this site ... we have 2. they are a great coral. you will be amazed at how they can ingest water (swell up). it really is a cool coral to sit and watch. IMO, i would be kinda leery of a LFS that didn't know a "flowerpot" !!

[davejnz]

It is a Goniopora sp. I wouldn't say for sure whether its a G.stokesi though.Species identifaction often requires a detailed examinatio of the skeleton.
This coral has an extremely poor survival record in captivity.There are few, scattered reports of people keeping them long term(over 2yrs).It is also one of the corals on Eric Bornemans list of "ocean animals" that should not be collected for the hobby.If it were me,I'd trade it back in for another coral.

[JustDavidP]

Glad Dave stepped in...

I always get worried when I see a post that is something like: "got this today and don't know what it is".

I'm not going to get into preachy mode...BUT.. if you have a decent LFS... and see "something" you like.. ask for them to hold it...even if you have to put a down payment on it. Then... RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH.

You see how quickly you got an ID on this coral here at this forum? With that knowledge, you can then hit a Borneman book, the internet, something...and figure out the requirements for keeping it.

If, in the end, you can keep it, you purchase. IF not, you let the LFS know why you didn't and ask that they help you pick a more appropriate selection for your system.

Dave

[Sweetpea]

Glad Dave stepped in... I always get worried when I see a post that is something like: "got this today and don't know what it is".

Dave is a great source of information to be sure!
I have seen a number of things over the past year that I didn't recognize, but I always ask about it. I would be really worried if the store couldn't tell you what this coral is...
If the situation comes up again, it would probably be best to do follow David's recommendation - ask them if they will hold it for you while you go home and do some research. If they require a deposit, make sure they will refund it if you determine that the specimen is not suitable for you. If they won't, it might be time to find another LFS...

[lReef lKeeper]

glad to see you coming back around DJ !!

[john007]

Why would someone sell an ocean animal that is not to be collected......maybe they didnt know...lol

[JustDavidP]

No no no... there are no "total bans" on its collection. It is just that wiser, more compassionate minds KNOW that it should not be collected.

D