Actually its the incrusting ones and most of the reds are easier to keep, goniopora stokesi is still impossible to keep.. .. Ora sells a red one that is easier to keep. No goniopora is a beginners coral...Success in goniopora is measured in years not a year. Most will die at about the 1.5 year too two year mark. The key is the right food for the right goniopora and a good amount of feedings . I also believe they do feed on bacteria. The thing about goniopra is they require a lot of time and feedings Allot of tanks cant handle the added load some of them will put on a tank due to the feeding. I think a well lit nps tank would be awsum for goniopra. The ORA red seems to be the one that is different, it is easier to keep and does good with minimal feedings. Feeding golden pearls, cyclopeese, reef frenzy and the best is oyster eggs. Also Justin Credabel released a goniopora food through Two Little Fishies.
As far as clowns go most will die with clowns if they host them, it really depends on how ruff they are. My clarkiis would tear a goniopora apart in a day. It also depends on what else the clowns may host or rub up against in that particular reef.
I agree alevapora would be much easier.