There are many common names given to the corals of the
genus Porites, almost one for every bright coloration that can be found.
'Finger Coral' and 'Jeweled Coral', to name a few, can be found in a range
of colors that are only topped by a box of crayons. Pastel blue, bright
yellow and hot pink are only a few colorations that are not uncommon in
this genus. While commonly smooth and waxy, with sufficient flow and adequate
lighting these corals will actually become fuzzy in appearance. Of particular
note, corals of the genus Porites are famous for hosting commensal worms.
These corals are most often dubbed 'Christmas Tree Coral' due to the flashy
red appearance of the woms themselves. These corals are best kept by advanced
reef aquarists with metal halide lighting and high water flow.