Red Finger Sponge

About this coral
Red Finger Sponge (Haliclona compressa), 1–4 inches

The Red Finger Sponge is a striking branching soft coral belonging to the phylum Porifera. Its vibrant red to orange coloration and upright finger-like branches make it a unique addition to mature reef tanks. Unlike most corals, this sponge is a filter-feeder that captures tiny organisms from the water column rather than relying on light. It demands strong water flow, supplemental feeding, pristine water quality, and expert care, making it suitable only for established aquariums with proven stability.

Features:

• Striking red-orange coloration with branching, finger-like structure
• Filter-feeding organism; does not require high light
• Grows upright and adds vertical dimension to rockwork
• Peaceful; reef-safe and compatible with other corals
• Benefits from established aquariums with abundant microorganisms
• Requires strong, consistent water flow to capture food and avoid debris settling

Specifications:

• Care level: Expert
• Temperament: Peaceful, reef-safe
• Light: Moderate (low light acceptable, but photosynthetic sponges in the related family benefit from indirect light; direct strong lighting may cause algae issues)
• Water flow: Moderate to strong (essential for feeding and debris removal)
• Placement: Bottom to middle regions of tank
• Adult size: 1–4 inches (size varies; branching growth pattern)
• Diet: Filter feeder (nanoplanktivores); bacteria, phytoplankton, and zooplankton
• Water parameters:
• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026 (stable more important than exact value)
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
• Calcium: 400–450 ppm
• Magnesium: 1,300–1,450 ppm
• Nitrate: 10–25 ppm (some nutrient is essential; do not aim for zero)
• Phosphate: 0.01–0.1 ppm
• Ammonia & Nitrite: Undetectable