top of page

Family: Mussidae :

 

1- Acan Echinata

Starry Cup Coral, Echinata Coral, Rainbow Acanthastrea

Family: Mussidae

 

Acanthastrea echinata

 

The Acan Echinata is a very attractive LPS coral that comes in all the colors of the rainbow!

The Acan Echinata Acanthastrea echinata is a colorful large polyp stony (LPS) coral in the Mussidae family. They are found in some intense oranges to intense green and red combinations.The Echinata Coral is the second most popular and sought after of the Acanthastrea species, following the Acan Lord A. lordhowensis. Some descriptive names the A. echinata are known by include Echinata Coral, Starry Cup Coral, Artichoke Coral, Pineapple coral, Rainbow Acanthastrea, Rainbow Acan, and Acan Brain Coral.

 

A. echinata has been propagated in captivity with great success, leading to a variety of colors. Captive bred specimens can have lavenders (gray), oranges (rust), and bright green combinations and different colored specimens have even been fused or grafted. Propagated specimens are called such things as Orange Crush Acan Echinata, Rainbow Acan Echinata, Lavender Green Acan Echinata, and so forth.

 

The Acan Echinata is one of the easiest of the LPS (large polyp stony) corals to care for. They are not at all demanding and will readily grow new polyps. They do not need to be fed since they use the dissolved organics in the tank for nourishment. Try to avoid housing with soft corals as they do not do as well in their presence, and some will die if the softy population is too high. Provide a low water movement and moderate lighting. Do not use metal halides since the Acan Echinata will not fully open under lighting that is too strong.

 

The Acanthastrea species are fairly common in nature and have been regularly available in the aquarium trade for many years. They are collected in similar numbers as other Mussidae corals including the well known Lobophylliaand Blastomussa species. However, Acanthastrea corals have often been misidentified. They are easily confused with some of these other members of the Mussidae family as well as species from the Faviidae family, Consequently Importers, retailers, and ultimately reef keepers will often simply trade them as 'brain corals'. Those that are advertised as Acanthastrea are generally quite pricey.

Scientific name

   Family: Mussidae
   Species: Acanthastrea echinata

 

Distribution / Background :

 

Acanthastrea Coral Information: The Acanthastrea genus was described by Edwards and Haime in 1848. There are about 16 species, approximately 13 of which are true species with 4 being found around Australia. Species include: A. amakusensis, A. bowerbanki, A. echinata, A. faviaformis, A. hemprichi, A. hemprichii, A. hillae, A. horrida, A. ishigakiensis, A. lordhowensis,A. maxima, A. minuta, A. regularis, A. rotundaflora, A. simplex, and A. subechinata. A. micromusa it is not actually in theAcanthastrea genus due to its skeletal structure and as of yet has not been added to the list.

 

Some common names the Acanthastrea corals are know for are Brain Coral, Bullseye Coral, Moon coral, Pineapple Coral, Starry Cup Coral, Pineapple Starry Cup Coral, and Pineapple Brain Coral. The Acanthastrea genus has been propagated in captivity.

 

The A. echinata was described by Dana in 1846. Some common names these corals are know for are Echinata Coral, Pineapple Coral, Artichoke Coral, Starry Cup Coral, Acan Brain Coral, Rainbow Acanthastrea, Rainbow Acan, and Favia. The A. echinata has been propagated in captivity with great success, leading to a variety of colors. Some reef farmers have named theirs Orange Crush Acan Echinata, Rainbow Acan Echinata, Lavender Green Acan Echinata, etc.

 

Where Acanthastrea Corals Are Found: The Acanthastrea echinata are found from the Red Sea to the Marshall Islands and the Tuamotu Archiplego; also around Australia in the Great Barrier Reef, the Coral Sea, the Elizabeth Reef in the east, and the Houtman Abrolhos Islands.

 

Acanthastrea Coral Habitat: The Acanthastrea echinata live in a wide range of habitats on the reef, and are found at depths of 0-98 feet (0 - 30 m). They rarely occur over 3 feet (1 m) in diameter. They feed at night, extending thick tangled tentacles.

 

Status

   The A. echinata is not on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species.

 

 

 

Description  :

 

What do Acanthastrea Corals look like: The A. echinata has corallites (skeleton formation under each polyp) that have even walls, height wise, so there is a more uniform appearance to the coral. Inspecting the polyps of the A. echinata when not fully expanded reveals that these walls are being shared, thus contributing to the identification. When the polyps retract, due to their fleshy polyps, little folds appear almost like an accordion. They come in rust, brown and green, but captive frags can have lavenders (gray), orange (rust), and bright green combinations.

 

 Be careful when selecting your specimen of A. echinata, as It can easily be confused with Favites, Favia, andMoseleya corals unless the the fleshy polyps are expanded. On the other hand, it can also be easily confused withBlastomussa and Lobophyllia species if the polyps are expanded. Unlike these last two coral types, the walls of the Acan Enchinata are not "separate" on its skeletal structure, rather all its corallite walls are shared between the individual polyps. This can make Identifying them a little tricky, because when their polyps are fully expanded it gives the illusion of having separate corallite "walls". In this instance, being able to see the skeletal structure showing shared walls would be helpful.

 

Some colonies of A. echinata can reach 3 feet (1 m). Life span is unknown.

 

Difficulty of Care:

 

 Acanthastrea Coral Care: Like other Mussids, the A. echinata is easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for the beginner. Provide moderate lighting, as strong light will prevent the polyps from opening fully. Water flow should be low as well. Like other members of the Mussidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.

 

Foods / Feeding:

 

Acanthastrea Coral Feeding: The Acanthastrea genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

 

 In captivity, A. echinata feed mostly on nanoplankton and dissolved organics in the water, though like Ricordea (a type of Mushroom Coral), they can be fed zooplankton and very small prey.

 

Aquarium Care :

 

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

 

The Acan Enchinata will not do as well in a "pristine" water environment with no fish, as fish provide an source of nitrogen that they need to thrive. Calcium nitrate is also appreciated. Note that this is different from just plain calcium that we all add to our tanks for our corals.

 

 The following water supplements are suggested for Acanthastrea species:

 

  • Calcium:  400 to 450 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)

  • Alkalinity:  3.2 - 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)

  • Phosphates:  0, zero.

  • Magnesium:  1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.

  • Strontium:  8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

 

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Acanthastrea Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. A mature tank is recommended.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size / Length: 29 gallon (106 L) nano reef or larger

  • Marine Lighting: Medium, do not use metal halide

  • Temperature: 76° - 83° F (24° - 28° C)

  • Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025

  • Water Movement: Low

  • Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium

 

Compatibility and Social Behaviors :

 

The Acanthastrea genus is aggressive towards other corals. The A. echinata will get along with their same species, but typically different colors of different species tend to be more aggressive. They do need to be kept well away from other corals. They have tentacles that come out at night and sting nearby corals. Also, if close enough they will invert their stomach onto a nearby coral and digest the tissue right out of the skeleton. Once their "enemy" has been digested, they retract their stomach back inside.

 

The Acanthastrea genus does not do as well in the presence of soft corals. Some Acan species will die if the population of softies is too high.

 

Sex - Sexual differences :

 

  Unknown.

 

Breeding and Reproduction :

 

The large polyp stony (LPS) corals are hermaphrodites, male and female within the same organism, and can reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the wild they reproduce sexually by releasing eggs and sperm at the same time, resulting in a fertilized egg which then forms into a free-swimming planula larva. Eventually the planula larvae settles onto the substrate, becoming plankters. This then forms a tiny polyp which begins to excrete calcium carbonate and develops into a coral. Planula larvae are extremely vulnerable to predation, and very few survive.

 

The Acanthastrea genus are hermaphrodites that use external fertilization in the wild, but this has so far not been duplicated in man made systems. This genus reproduce asexually as well. In captivity, the A. echinata will drop tissue when stressed, in an attempt to propogate.They can also be propagated by fragmenting.

 

Propagation is very easy. Taking care to have clean or gloved hands, each polyp can be cut down the center of the polyp, through the mouth and can be cut in to halves or quarters. You can use a sharp scalpel, razor blade or dremel. Place the newly fragged polyp on the sand back in the main display. Putting them in a separate, "sterile" tank is not a good idea, since they need dissolved organics to survive. Make sure they have low water flow to help them heal.

 

Potential Problems :

 

The A. echinata are attractive and durable when their needs are provided for. They are pretty hardy, but can starve to death in a nitrate free tank.

 

Availability :

 

Acanthastrea Corals for Sale: The A. echinata is very easy to find at pet shops and on line. The cost online varies, depending on retailer, size, and/or color. One example would be $99.99 USD for a 6.5" (16.5 cm) piece.

 

References :

 

  • Animal-World References: Marine and Reef

  • Anthony Calfo, Book of Coral Propagation, Volume 1 Edition 2: Reef Gardening for Aquarists, Reading Trees; 2nd edition, 2007

  • J.E.N. Veron, Corals of Australia and the Indo-Pacific, University of Hawaii Press; 2 Rev Ed edition, 1993

  • Eric Borneman and Anthony Calfo, Good Lordhowensis!!, Reefkeeping, an online magazine for the marine aquarist, reefkeeping.com, copyright 2008

  • Justin Credabel, Coral Fusion and Grafting, Reefkeeping, an online magazine for the marine aquarist, reefkeeping.com, copyright 2006

2-Acan Lord

'The Lord', Acan Lord Howe, Closed Brain Coral

 

Acanthastrea lordhowensis

 

The Acan Lord is a regal stand alone! ...being the only critter named 'Lord' in the aquatic animal world!

 

 

The Acan Lord Acanthastrea lordhowensis, also known as 'The Lord', is the most colorful of the Acanthastrea genus. They come in most color combinations from red, purple, green, orange, blue, rust, brown and pale gray, to pale tan. Some descriptive names the A. lordhowensis are known by include Acan Lord Howe, Closed Brain Coral, Pineapple Starry Cup Coral, Pineapple Brain Coral, Lordhowensis, and Brain Coral.

 

The A. lordhowensis has been propagated in captivity with great success, leading to a variety of colors. Some names used by reef farmers are Watermelon Aussie Lord, Blood Diamond Aussie Lord, Green Acan Lord, and so forth. This is one of the two most popular and sought after of the Acanthastrea species, with the second being the Acan Echinata A. echinata, or Starry cup Coral.

 

The Acan Lord Howe is a great coral and is very easy to care for. They are not at all demanding and they will readily grow new polyps. They do not need to be fed since they use the dissolved organics in the tank for nourishment. Try to avoid housing with soft corals as they do not do as well in their presence, and some will die if the softy population is too high. Provide a low water movement, and do not use Metal Halides since the Acan Lord will not fully open.

 

The Acanthastrea species are fairly common in nature and have been regularly available in the aquarium trade for many years. They are collected in similar numbers as other Mussidae corals including the well known Lobophylliaand Blastomussa species. However, Acanthastrea corals have often been misidentified. They are easily confused with some of these other members of the Mussidae family as well as species from the Faviidae family. Consequently Importers, retailers, and ultimately reef keepers often don't know what they have, so will simply trade them as 'brain corals'. Those that are advertised as Acanthastrea are generally quite pricey.

 

Scientific name   Family: Mussidae
   Species: Acanthastrea lordhowensis

 

Status :

 The A. lordhowensis is not on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species.

Due to the Similarity .... Here is a brief .. For more information click on the primary name ..

Difficulty of Care :

 

 Acanthastrea Coral Care: Like other Mussids, the A. lordhowensis is easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for the beginner. Provide a moderate light, as strong light will prevent the polyps from opening fully. Water flow should be low as well. Like other members of the Mussidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.

 

Foods / Feeding :

 

Acanthastrea Coral Feeding: The Acanthastrea genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

 

 In captivity, A. echinata feed mostly on nanoplankton and dissolved organics in the water, though like Ricordea (a type of Mushroom Coral), they can be fed zooplankton and very small prey.

 

Aquarium Care :

 

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

 

The Acan Lord will not do as well in a "pristine" water environment with no fish, as fish provide a source of nitrogen that they need to thrive. Calcium nitrate is also appreciated. Note that this is different from just plain calcium that we all add to our tanks for our corals.

 

  The following water supplements are suggested for Acanthastrea species:

 

  • Calcium:  400 to 450 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)

  • Alkalinity:  3.2 - 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)

  • Phosphates:  0, zero.

  • Magnesium:  1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.

  • Strontium:  8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

 

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Acanthastrea Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. A mature tank is recommended.

 

  Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide a low water flow and moderate lighting for the best health. Do not use metal halides since the Acan Lord will not fully open under lighting that is too strong. This is an aggressive species, extending their sweeper tentacles at night. There needs to be plenty of space between it and other corals.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size / Length: 29 gallon (106 L) nano reef or larger

  • Marine Lighting: Medium, do not use metal halide

  • Temperature: 76° - 83° F (24° - 28° C)

  • Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025

  • Water Movement: Low

  • Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium  

  • Sex - Sexual differences   Unknown.

3-Blasto Coral

Blastomussa Coral, Open Brain Coral
Wellsi's Brain, Swollen Brain Coral, Big Pipe Blastomussa

 

Blastomussa wellsi

 

The Blasto coral is a favorite with great colors and subtle, but very unique characteristics!

 

Blastomussa Corals come in amazing color combinations. The striking Blasto Coral Blastomussa wellsi is one of the two highly favored Blastomussa corals, with its close cousin the Pineapple Coral Blastomussa merleti, being the other.

 

The Blasto Coral B. wellsi is generally considered more desirable than B. merleti due to its aquacultured colors that include green, purple, yellow, pink, red, sometimes even blue, and combinations of these colors. But it is also considered to be the more difficult of the two to care for. Some other names this coral is known for is Blastomussa Coral, Open Brain Coral, Wellsi's Brain, Swollen Brain Coral, Pineapple Coral, Big Pipe Blastomussa, and Blastomussa Wellsi.

 

he Blasto Coral B. wellsi is a great coral and makes an excellent centerpiece for the aquarium. Though they are slow growers, they are easy to moderate to care for and easy to frag. If you forget to feed them, it's okay. They can be fed directly and that will make them grow faster, but they are also content to take nutrients from the water column. Provide moderate lighting along with moderate, turbid water movement. Strong light will prevent the polyps from opening fully and can cause it to recede. Too strong of a water flow will also cause the polyps to close, and will make it impossible to feed.

 

The beautiful Blastomussa Corals are rather unique. They start out in colonies with each corallite extending out from a common center, creating a branching structure that extends upward in a 'dome' shape. However, over time these individual corallites can lose organic connection. Then rather than being a colony, each corallite becomes a cloned solitary individual.

 

When the large fleshy polyps of the Blastomussa corals are fully expanded, their underlying structure is hidden. They can then superficially resemble mushroom corals or be confused with other other brain corals as well as the Candy Cane Coral or Trumpet Coral. But when their polyps retract, it quickly becomes obvious they are Blastos.

 

 Blastomussa corals have been rare in the industry due to their natural habitat. They are found in turbid waters on the lower reef slopes, making them rather difficult to collect. However many people have propagated these easy to grow large polyp stony (LPS) corals, so though still considered more rare, availability is much better today. They tend to be quite pricey, especially for the more exotic colors.

Scientific name   Family: Mussidae
   Species: Blastomussa wellsi

 

Status  :

The B. wellsi is not on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species.

 

Difficulty of Care :

 

Blastomussa Coral Care: Like other Mussids, the B. wellsi is is easy to moderate to care for. It should be placed among the rock work, not on the sand. Provide a moderate light, as strong light will prevent the polyps from opening fully and cause it to recede. They need shade in tanks with Metal Halides, yet may possibly be slowly acclimated to MH. Water flow should be moderate and turbid as well. Strong water movement will also cause the polyps to close and will make it impossible to feed. Like other members of the Mussidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.

 

Foods / Feeding :

 

Blastomussa Coral Feeding: The Blastomussa genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

 

  In captivity, B. wellsi does very well being fed zooplankton, mysis, cyclopeeze, and other very small minced shrimp or fish. Feeding several times a week can help them grow faster. Each polyp can be its own animal, so make sure you are feeding all the polyps.

 

Aquarium Care :

 

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

 

   The following water supplements are suggested for Blastomussa species:

 

  • Calcium:  400 to 425 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)

  • Alkalinity:  3.2 - 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)

  • Phosphates:  0, zero.

  • Magnesium:  1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.

  • Strontium:  8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

 

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Blastomussa Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. It needs to be placed among the rock work, rather than on the sand. A mature tank is recommended.

 

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide moderate lighting and a low to moderate water flow for the best health. Provide shade when using metal halides, since the Blasto Coral will not fully open under lighting that is too strong. Strong water movement will also cause the polyps to close and will make it impossible to feed. This is an aggressive species, extending their sweeper tentacles at night. There needs to be plenty of space between it and other corals.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size / Length: 29 gallon (106 L) nano reef or larger

  • Marine Lighting: Low to medium, provide shade when using metal halides

  • Temperature: 76° - 83° F (24° - 28° C)

  • Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025

  • Water Movement: Moderate and turbid

  • Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium

  • Sex - Sexual differences   Unknown.

4-Button Coral

Meat Coral, Tooth Coral, Knob Coral
Open Meat Coral, Flat Cup Coral

 

Acanthophyllia deshayesiana

 

The Button Coral has several common names, but for the scientific name you've just had to follow the 'bounce'!

 

The Button Coral is one of several large, single polyp stony corals with a round or doughnut shape. Just lIke other other single polyp doughnut type corals, such as the Cat's Eye Coral Cynarina lacrymalis and the Fancy Doughnut Coral Scolymia vitiensis, the Button Coral can be free living or attached to the substrate. They can be a solitary polyp or can grow in colonies with one or more centers.

 

 The Acanthophyllia genus currently has one species, the Button CoralAcanthophyllia deshayesiana. And what a journey the scientific classification of the Button Coral has been. This species has been bounced from genus to genus, and then finally to its own, Acanthophyllia.

 

At one point, what is currently known now as Acanthophyllia deshayesiana used to be categorized as, and said to be, what was thenScolymia vitiensis. Then Scolymia vitiensis was changed to Cynarina deshayesiana, and thus put under the Cynarina genus. As more study on the skeletal structure and flesh of C. deshayesiana was done, it was established that it may not actually be in the Cynarina genus. So now, at least as of early 2009, the ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System) has given this bouncing coral its own genus, Acanthophyllia.

 

The color of the Button Coral A. deshayesiana is usually a dark red, dark green, or a combination of the two. Their skeletal structure is not quite round, but an irregular oval or circle that is flatter and larger than Scolymia corals. The septal teeth are strong and blunt, and they are not as "bubbly" or as fleshy as other species of this type, especially the Cynarina corals. Some of the names they are known for are Flat Cup Coral, Open Meat Coral, Knob Coral, Tooth Coral, and Meat Coral.

 

The Button Coral is is easy to care for. It is a favorite for beginners due to its hardy and undemanding nature. In spite of the classification challenge, A. deshayesiana is still just hardy as the other corals in the Mussidae family, but with just a few variations on its care. Providing low to moderate lighting or indirect bright lighting is suggested, as well as a lower water current to allow for full expansion. Position the Button Coral in a mostly upright position since the weight of the flesh can tear against the skeleton if too much pressure is applied.

 

This is probably the easiest species of this type to care for, since they are not as prone to tissue injury infections. They are relatively slow growers so won't take over you tank anytime soon, but they do respond really well when being fed. They have been propagated in captivity.

 

Scientific name  :

Family: Mussidae
   Species: Acanthophyllia deshayesiana (previously Scolymia vitiensis, then Cynarina deshayesiana)

 

Status  :

The Acanthophyllia deshayesiana (referenced as previously named Scolymia vitiensis) is on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species as Near Threatened (NT).

Difficulty of Care : 

 

Acanthophyllia Coral Care: Like other Mussids, the A. deshayesiana is easy to care for. Only using low to moderate lighting is suggested, as well as lower water current to allow full expansion. Like other members of the Mussidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.

 

Foods / Feeding :

 

Acanthophyllia Coral Feeding: The A. deshayesiana, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

 

In captivity, A. deshayesiana does very well being be fed minced pieces of fish, shrimp, mysis, cyclopeeze, and rotifers. Feed at night when tentacles are present, or illicit a feeding response using shrimp or fish juice. Feeding once a week or more will help them grow faster, typical of the genus. They tend to morph into weird shapes when fed.

 

Aquarium Care:

 

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

 

The following water supplements are suggested for A. deshayesiana. Trace elements and iodine may also be added.:

 

  • Calcium:  400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)

  • Alkalinity:  3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)

  • Phosphates:  0, zero.

  • Magnesium:  1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.

  • Strontium:  8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

 

 A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Button Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. Position in a mostly upright position since the weight of the flesh can tear against the skeleton if too much pressure is applied. A mature tank is recommended.

 

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide low to moderate lighting and a lower water flow for the best health and to allow for full expansion of the polyp. This is a peaceful species, though it does extend feeding sweeper tentacles at night. There needs to be plenty of space between it and other corals.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) or larger

  • Marine Lighting: Low to moderate

  • Temperature: 74° - 82° F (23° - 27° C) for warm tropical specimens

  • Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.024 - 1.026

  • Water Movement: Low to Moderate / gentle

  • Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium if placed on substrate, top or middle if under a ledge

  • Sex - Sexual differences  : Unknown.

5-Cat's Eye Coral

Doughnut Coral, Modern Coral, Solitary Cup Coral,
Meat Coral, Meat Polyp, Teary Star Coral, Teary Eye Coral

 

Cynarina lacrymalis

 

The elegant Cat's Eye Coral has a delicate appearance, but looks are where 'delicate' ends and hardy begins!

The beautiful Cat's Eye Coral Cynarina lacrymalis is perhaps the most delicate beauty in the coral world. It is the largest single polyp coral in nature, and can be free living or attached to the substrate. They have either a round or oval structure topped with fleshy translucent bubble shaped lobes. The large underlying septa can be visible through the lobes when they are expanded during the daytime.

 

Cynarina corals come in wonderful mixes of almost any color. The Cat's Eye Coral can range from bright hues of red, pink, and green to drab browns or gentle pastels. The center can be the same or a contrasting color. Depending on the tank conditions, these corals have an almost chameleon-like ability to change their surface appearance from a dull mottled look to a high glossy sheen.

 

Some other names this coral is known for are Doughnut Coral, Modern Coral, Solitary Cup Coral, Meat Coral or Meat Polyp, Cynarina Doughnut Coral, Teary Star Coral, Teary Eye Coral, Owl's Eye Coral, Donut Coral, and Eye of Cat Coral. The "Meat Coral" name comes from the red variation. However most are called the Cat's Eye Coral or Doughnut Coral for the other colors, especially if the center is contrasting. It can be confused with its relatives in the Scolymia genus, like the Fancy Doughnut Coral Scolymia vitiensis. But the Scolymia corals differ in that they do not have large puffy translucent polyps or the large, toothy ridges in the skeletal structure found in theCynarina species.

 

The Cynarina genus is highly prized due to its hardy nature. They are tolerant of a wide range of environmental conditions, more so than any other member of the Mussidae family. In spite of its delicate appearance, the lovely Cat's Eye Coral is generally a hardy large polyp stony (LPS) coral in most aquariums. Providing low to moderate lighting is suggested, as well as a lower water current to allow for full expansion.

 

This wonderful coral makes a prize show piece for both the beginner and the experienced reef keeper. C. lacrymalis have been propagated in captivity. Due to their slow growth however, Cynarina corals are not always available, and when they are they can be pricey. The red variation is the most popular, pulling almost $100.00 USD for a good sized polyp.

 

Scientific name   Family: Mussidae
   Species: Cynarina lacrymalis

 

Status :

 The C. lacrymalis is listed on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species as Near Threatened (NT)

 

Difficulty of Care :

 

Cynarina Coral Care: Like other Mussids, the C. lacrymalis is easy to care for. Provide a low to moderate light. Water flow should be lower as well to allow for full expansion of the polyp. Like other members of the Mussidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.

 

Foods / Feeding  :

 

Cynarina Coral Feeding: The Cynarina genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

 

In captivity,C. lacrymalis does very well being fed pieces of fish, shrimp or other flesh, as well as mysis. Feed at night when tentacles are present, or illicit a feeding response using shrimp or fish juice. When feeding, make sure you feed the entire organism to your coral. For instance, if you have a silverside, chop it up, yet give the entire fish to the coral. This is so it gets all the nutritional elements they need from the whole organism. Feeding several times a week will help them grow faster.

 

Aquarium Care :

 

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

 

The following water supplements are suggested for Cynarina species. Trace elements and iodine may also be added.:

 

  • Calcium:  400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)

  • Alkalinity:  3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)

  • Phosphates:  0, zero.

  • Magnesium:  1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.

  • Strontium:  8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters : 

 

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Cynarina Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. It needs to be placed facing upward. A mature tank is recommended.

 

 Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide low to moderate lighting and a lower water flow for the best health and to allow for full expansion of the polyp. This is a peaceful species, though it does extend feeding sweeper tentacles at night. There needs to be plenty of space between it and other corals.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) or larger

  • Marine Lighting: Low to moderate

  • Temperature: 74° - 82° F (23° - 27° C)

  • Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.024 - 1.026

  • Water Movement: Low to Moderate

  • Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium

  • Sex - Sexual differences   Unknown.

6-Fancy Doughnut Coral

Artichoke Coral, Button Coral, Scolymia Brain Coral,
Button Scolymia Coral, Green Scolymia Brain Coral

 

Scolymia vitiensis

 

Though the Fancy Doughnut Coral can look just like a donut, it can also have 'fancier' shapes and more centers!

The Fancy Doughnut Coral Scolymia vitiensis is one of several large polyp stony (LPS) corals that have a round donut-like appearance, hence the names doughnut / donut corals. But the Scolymia species can form more varied shapes than just a donut.Scolymia vitiensis tends to be dome shaped or flat, but can also be saucer-like or cup shaped.

 

Just lIke other other single polyp doughnut type corals, such as the Cat's Eye Coral Cynarina lacrymalis, Scolymia corals can be free living or attached to the substrate. But unlike other donut types, the Scolymiacorals are normally a solitary single polyp but can also develop multiple centers, and they can form colonies.

 

As juveniles the Fancy Doughnut Coral S. vitiensis can be very difficult to distinguish from its cousin S. australis, but fortunately for identification, it is the most commonly available Scolymia species in the hobby. Scolymiacorals can also be confused with relatives in the Cynarina genus, as well as juveniles in the Lobophyllia genus. In their skeletal structure, theLobophyllia corals are distinguished by being flatter and they have less pronounced 'teeth'. The Cynarina corals differ too by having large bubbly translucent polyps over the large, toothy ridges (septa) in their skeleton, that can often be seen through this film-like tissue.

 

Scolymia corals colors are generally a rather muted or dull dark green, red, cream, or blue. They can also have a mottling of several of these colors. The Fancy Doughnut Coral S. vitiensis, is usually a dark green in the wild, but has aquacultured specimens with many colors within each organism such as cream, red, blue, and green. Some other common names for the Fancy Doughnut Coral are Artichoke Coral, Button Coral, Scolymia Brain Coral, Button Scolymia Coral, Green Scolymia Brain, Red or Green Flat Brain Coral, and Meat Coral.

 

The Fancy Doughnut Coral is a favorite for beginners due to its hardy and undemanding nature. Of the Scolymiacorals, it is the easiest to maintain mostly because it is less sensitive to injury and not as susceptible to death from the stings of other corals. Only using low to moderate lighting is suggested, as well as lower water current to allow full expansion. Place them in the rock work rather than on the substrate, as they can be damaged if they get buried in sand. They are relatively slow growers so won't take over you tank anytime soon, but they do respond really well when being fed.

 

Scientific name  :

Family: Mussidae
Species: Scolymia vitiensis

 

Status :

 The following species from the Scolymia genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species:

  • Scolymia vitiensis: Near Threatened (NT)

  • Scolymia australis: Least Concerned (LC)

  • Scolymia cubensi (Scolymia wellsi): Least Concerned (LC)

  • Scolymia lacera (Mussa angulosa): Least Concerned (LC)

Difficulty of Care :

 

Scolymia Coral Care: Like other Mussids, the S. vitiensis is easy to care for. Only using low to moderate lighting is suggested, as well as lower water current to allow full expansion. Like other members of the Mussidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.

 

Foods / Feeding :

 

Scolymia Coral Feeding: The Scolymia genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

 

In captivity,S. vitiensis does very well being be fed minced 1/4" pieces shrimp, cyclopeeze, pellet food, and mysis. Feed at night when tentacles are present. Feeding several times a week will help them grow faster, and keep them healthy. In a colony, remember each polyp is its own animal, so make sure you are feeding all the polyps.

 

Aquarium Care :

 

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

 

The following water supplements are suggested for Scolymia species. Trace elements and iodine may also be added.:

  • Calcium:  400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)

  • Alkalinity:  3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)

  • Phosphates:  0, zero.

  • Magnesium:  1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.

  • Strontium:  8 - 10

 

Aquarium Parameters : 

 

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Scolymia Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. Cement in place on rock work, since they are easily injured by falls. Don't place them In the sand as they can be buried by burrowing creatures and damaged. A mature tank is recommended.

 

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide low to moderate lighting and a lower water flow for the best health and to allow for full expansion of the polyp. This is a peaceful species, though it does extend feeding sweeper tentacles at night. There needs to be plenty of space between it and other corals.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) or larger

  • Marine Lighting: Low to moderate

  • Temperature: 74° - 83° F (23° - 28° C)

  • Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.024 - 1.026

  • Water Movement: Low to Moderate / turbulent

  • Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium, but on rock work.

  • Sex - Sexual differences   Unknown.

7-Lobed Brain Coral

Flat Brain Coral, Open Brain Coral, Wrinkle Coral, Meat Coral

 

Lobophyllia hemprichii

 

 The Lobed Brain Coral has everything going for it... very attractive, very hardy, and very reasonably priced!

The popular and durable Lobed Brain Coral Lobophyllia hemprichii is a favorite beginner's large polyp stony (LPS) coral. It is distinct from otherLobophyllia species because of its colorful variations and textures. Colors vary from bright red, orange, blue, green, gray, white, tan, or brown and can be a single color or have a contrasting center. Their large polyps are thick and fleshy with either a smooth or rough surface. Each polyp forms curves, almost like an hour glass shape, but often with a few more curves and an open center.

 

The Lobophyllia species form massive colonies in the wild, often more than 15 feet (4.5 m) across. A giant colony of L. hemprichii is very impressive. Although this coral is semi-aggressive towards other corals, its colonies are often groupings of multiple individual colonies of this same species. Each individual group will have its own distinct coloration and texture, making a tapestry of color and design.

 

Lobophyllia colonies are either flat or domed. Typical of many brain corals, the Lobophyllia grows in two basic shapes. They can develop as flabello-meandroid forms, which means there are elongated meandering valleys between separate corallite walls; or they can be placeloid, which means tall separate corallites rising up from the skeleton that are very predominant. They can have polyps on the ends of branches, and these can be very long branches up to 12' (30 cm") in length. Their large prominent polyp tissue usually cloaks the underlying skeleton from view.

 

The Lobed Brain Coral is one of the easiest of the LPS (large polyp stony) corals to care for, and it easy to propagate. Use moderate lighting and moderate water flow that is turbulent. Since they are found in several lighting environments, watch your coral to see how it responds in your tank and adjust the light accordingly. You can do this by placing the coral higher or lower in the tank. It is best to start at the lowest point and work up.

 

L. hemprichii has been propagated in captivity with great success. Some of the common names they known for are Lobed Brain Coral, Flat Brain Coral, Wrinkle Coral, Open Brain Coral, and Meat Coral. This genus of corals can be confused with Symphyllia species, however they can be distinguished by the skeletal structure. Symphyllia corals have corallite walls that are joined or fused together rather than separate. They can also be confused with theScolymia genus when young or just a single polyp, this is just until they develop their curved hourglass shaped polyps.

 

Scientific name :

Family: Mussidae
Species: Lobophyllia hemprichii

 

Status   :

The following species from the Lobophyllia genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species.

  • Lobophyllia corymbosa: Least Concern (LC)

  • Lobophyllia diminuta: Vulnerable (VU)

  • Lobophyllia hataii: Least Concern (LC)

  • Lobophyllia hemprichii: Least Concern (LC)

  • Lobophyllia pachysepta: Near Threatened (NT)

  • Lobophyllia robusta: Least Concern (LC)

 

 

 

Difficulty of Care  :

 

 Lobophyllia Coral Care: Like other Mussids, the L. hemprichii is easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for the beginner. Use moderate lighting and moderate water flow that is turbulent. Since they are found in several lighting environments, watch your coral to see how it responds in your tank and adjust the light accordingly, by placing higher or lower in the tank. It is best to start at the lowest point and work up. Like other members of the Mussidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.

 

Foods / Feeding  

 

Lobophyllia Coral Feeding: The Lobophyllia genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

 

In captivity, L. hemprichii does well being be fed minced pieces of fish and shrimp flesh as well as mysis, rotifers, newly hatched brine shrimp or Cyclopeeze. Feed once a week or depending on how much the coral is accepting food. Feed at night when tentacles are present, although the tentacles can be seen during the day at times and they may accept food then.

Aquarium Care :

 

 Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

 

The following water supplements are suggested for Lobophyllia species: Trace elements and iodine may also be added.

 

  • Calcium:  400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)

  • Alkalinity:  3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)

  • Phosphates:  0, zero.

  • Magnesium:  1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.

  • Strontium:  8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

 

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Lobophyllia Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. A mature tank is recommended.

 

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide a low to moderate and turbulent water flow and moderate to high lighting for the best health. Fast laminar (one directional) water flow can cause tearing. This is an aggressive species, extending their sweeper tentacles at night. There needs to be plenty of space between it and other corals.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) nano reef or larger

  • Marine Lighting: Medium to high

  • Temperature: 74° - 83° F (23° - 28° C)

  • Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.024 - 1.026

  • Water Movement: Low to moderate, turbulent

  • Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium

  • Sex - Sexual differences   Unknown.

8-Micromussa Coral

Micro Coral, Pineapple Coral, Moon Coral, Brain Coral
Closed Brain Coral, Meat Brain Coral

 

Micromusa Sp.

 

The striking Micromussa Coral has become a very exciting discovery for reef aquarists!

The beautiful Micromussa Coral Micromussa sp. has wonderful natural colors, and even more stunning colors in captive bred specimens. They come in colors ranging from red, purple, green, orange, blue, rust, brown and pale gray, to pale tan. The colors can be solid or in combinations with a contrasting center. Some specimens have a white or gray ring around the center, and some can even have speckling.

 

 Common names for the Micrommusa Corals are Micro Coral, Pineapple Coral, Moon Coral, Brain Coral, Closed Brain Coral, and Meat Brain Coral. Yet descriptive names of captive bred specimens are very creative, including such things as Japanese Micromussa, Aussie Micromussa, Independence Micromussa, Fire-Red, Toxic Candy, Neon, Smashmouth, Mirco Candy Striped, Trinity, Gent, Pink Lemonade, Pink Floyd, Super Red, Blazing Red, Red & Gold, Passionfruit Micromussa, and more.

 

This highly favored genus is a more recent and somewhat rare addition to the reef hobby. The Micromussa genus itself was only just described in the later 1900's. Prior to that it was included in the Acanthastrea genus. As more and more specimens were identified and placed in the Acanthastrea genus, a reclassification placed those with smaller corallites (8mm or less) into a new genera called Micromussa.

 

Due to its close relationship to other members of the Mussidae family, especially its close cousins in the Acanthastrea genus, identification is a bit tricky. The Micro Coral has the appearance of being a cross between Faviaand Acanthastrea species. It can easily be confused with the brightly colored Acan Lord A. lordhowensis or the Acan Enchinata A. echinata. Adding to the confusion, the polyps tend to look a little bit like the Pineapple CoralBlastomussa merletti. Like members of the Acanthastrea genus, the Micromussa Corals have most likely been a regular import, just misidentified and therefore simply called a brain coral.

 

In order to ensure an accurate purchase, it helps to learn the skeletal as well as physical structure of the different members of the Mussidae family. Colonies of Micromussa species have 5-6 millimeter corallites (the cupped skeletal structure that the fleshy polyp grows over). Their corallites are cerioid, meaning they shares the same wall with each other. Putting the coral in very cold salt water can cause it to retract almost entirely for accurate measurement, and it will restore itself after a bit. The corallites of Micromussa species are always smaller than any of the Acanthastreaspecies when mature.

 

The Micromussa Coral is a very attractive large polyp stony (LPS) coral and makes an excellent centerpiece for the aquarium. Like other other Mussids, they are easy to care for. Provide a medium light and gentle water movement. Too strong a light will prevent the polyps from opening fully. Feeding at least once a week is fine, but providing several feedings a week will make them grow faster. You also don't need to feed each individual poylp, as all polyps contribute to the well-being of the colony.

 

Many people have propagated these easy to grow large polyp stony (LPS) corals. So although they are still considered more rare, availability is much better today. However some of the very colorful aquacultured specimens can be a bit pricey.

 

Scientific name :

Family: Mussidae
Species: Micromussa sp.

 

Status :

 The Micromussa sp. is not on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species.

 

Difficulty of Care :

 

Micromussa Coral Care: Like other Mussids, the Micromussa sp. is easy to care for. Strong light will prevent the polyps from opening fully. Moderate light is needed and water flow should be low. Like other members of the Mussidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.

 

Foods / Feeding  :

 

Micromussa Coral Feeding: The Micromussa genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

 

 In captivity,Micromussa sp., like Ricordea (a type of Mushroom Coral), they can be fed zooplankton, mysis, cyclopeeze, and other very small prey in the evening. Feeding once a week is fine, but feeding several times a week will help them grow much faster.

 

Aquarium Care :

 

 Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

 

The Micromussa corals will not do as well in a "pristine" water environment with no fish, as fish provide a source of nitrogen that they need to thrive. Calcium nitrate is also appreciated. Note that this is different from just plain calcium that we all add to our tanks for our corals.

 

The following water supplements are suggested for Micromussa species:

  • Calcium:  400 to 425 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)

  • Alkalinity:  3.2 - 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)

  • Phosphates:  0, zero.

  • Magnesium:  1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.

  • Strontium:  8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters : 

 

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Micromussa Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. A mature tank is recommended.

 

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide moderate lighting and a low to moderate water flow for the best health. The Micromussa Coral will not fully open under lighting that is too strong. This is an aggressive species, extending their sweeper tentacles at night. There needs to be plenty of space between it and other corals.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size / Length: 29 gallon (106 L) nano reef or larger

  • Marine Lighting: Low to medium

  • Temperature: 76° - 83° F (24° - 28° C)

  • Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025

  • Water Movement: Low

  • Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium

  • Sex - Sexual differences :   Unknown.

9-Pineapple Coral

Blastomussa Coral, Pipe Blastomussa, Branched Cup Coral
Blasto Merleti, Branching Blastomussa, Blasto Pipe

 

Blastomussa merletti

 

The Pineapple Coral has wonderful natural colors, and even more stunning colors in captive bred specimens!

The beautiful Pineapple Coral Blastomussa merleti is one of the two highly favored Blastomussa corals. The other is its even more colorful cousin the Blasto Coral Blastomussa wellsi. Yet of the two, the B. merleti is considered to be the easier to care for.

 

The colors of the Pineapple Coral are unique to this species. The centers are usually green and the outer area is brown to dark red. Exciting new aquacultured specimens come in pinks, maroons and various shades of green, with centers from yellow greens to deep greens. Some other names this coral is known for are Blastomussa Coral, Pipe Blastomussa, Branched Cup Coral, Blasto Merleti, Branching Blastomussa, Blasto Pipe, Red and Green Blastomussa, and Blasto Pineapple Coral.

 

The Pineapple Coral B. merleti is a great large polyp stony (LPS) coral and makes an excellent centerpiece for the aquarium. Though they are slow growers, they are easy to moderate to care for. If you forget to feed them, they could care less. They can be fed directly and that will make them grow faster, but they are also content to take nutrients from the water column. Provide moderate lighting along with moderate, turbid water movement. Strong light will prevent the polyps from opening fully and can cause it to recede. Too strong of a water flow will also cause the polyps to close, and will make it impossible to feed.

 

The beautiful Blastomussa Corals are rather unique. They start out in colonies with each corallite extending out from a common center, creating a branching structure that extends upward in a 'dome' shape. However, over time these individual corallites can lose organic connection. Then rather than being a colony, each corallite becomes a cloned solitary individual.

 

 When the large fleshy polyps of the Blastomussa corals are fully expanded, their underlying structure is hidden. They can then superficially resemble mushroom corals or be confused with other other brain corals as well as the Candy Cane Coral or Trumpet Coral. But when their polyps retract, it quickly becomes obvious they are Blastos.

 

Blastomussa corals have been rare in the industry due to their natural habitat. They are found in turbid waters on the lower reef slopes, making them rather difficult to collect. However many people have propagated these easy to grow large polyp stony (LPS) corals, so though still considered more rare, availability is much better today.

 

Scientific name   Family: Mussidae
   Species: Blastomussa merleti

 

Status :

 The B. merleti is not on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species.

 

Difficulty of Care :

 

Blastomussa Coral Care: Like other Mussids, the B. merleti is is easy to moderate to care for. Provide a moderate light, as strong light will prevent the polyps from opening fully and cause it to recede. They need shade in tanks with Metal Halides, yet may possibly be slowly acclimated to MH. Water flow should be moderate and turbid as well. Strong water movement will also cause the polyps to close and will make it impossible to feed. Like other members of the Mussidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.

 

Foods / Feeding  : 

 

 Blastomussa Coral Feeding: The Blastomussa genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

 

In captivity,B. merleti does very well being fed zooplankton, mysis, cyclopeeze, and other very small minced shrimp or fish. Feeding several times a week can help them grow faster. Each polyp can be its own animal, so make sure you are feeding all the polyps.

 

Aquarium Care :

 

  Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

 

The following water supplements are suggested for Blastomussa species:

  • Calcium:  400 to 425 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)

  • Alkalinity:  3.2 - 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)

  • Phosphates:  0, zero.

  • Magnesium:  1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.

  • Strontium:  8 - 10

Aquarium Parameters :

 

A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Blastomussa Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. It needs to be placed among the rock work, rather than on the sand. A mature tank is recommended.

 

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide moderate lighting and a low to moderate water flow for the best health. Provide shade when using metal halides, since the Pineapple Coral will not fully open under lighting that is too strong. Strong water movement will also cause the polyps to close and will make it impossible to feed. This is an aggressive species, extending their sweeper tentacles at night. There needs to be plenty of space between it and other corals.

 

  • Minimum Tank Size / Length: 29 gallon (106 L) nano reef or larger

  • Marine Lighting: Low to medium, provide shade when using metal halides

  • Temperature: 76° - 83° F (24° - 28° C)

  • Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025

  • Water Movement: Moderate and turbid

  • Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium

  • Sex - Sexual differences  : Unknown.

10-Symphyllia Brain Coral

Closed Brain Coral, Dented Brain Coral, Meat Coral
Pacific Cactus Coral, Symphony Coral, Closed Lobophyllia

Symphyllia Sp.

 

Aquacultured specimens of Symphyllia Brain Coral vie for a top place as one of the most colorful brain corals!

The Symphyllia Brain Coral Symphyllia sp., popularly known as the Closed Brain Coral or Dented Brain Coral, is attractive and hardy. Symphyllia Corals include some of the most richly colored aquacultured corals available today. With dynamic colors and color combinations, similar to the classy Acan Lord Acanthastrea lordhowensis, these captive bred specimans can make an awesome reef aquarium showpiece.

 

In the wild, the Symphyllia genus forms flat or dome shaped colonies. These colonies have wide valleys that meander in curves and twists throughout the coral. At times the valley can be so spacious, such as on a new, single polyp, that it can look like a completely different species. Each polyp has a unique shape and some have bumps, or ridges in the middle of the polyp. Some of the names they are known for are Symphyllia Brain Coral, Brain Coral, Dented Brain Coral, Closed Brain Coral, Symphony Coral, Meat Coral, Wrinkle Coral, Pacific Cactus Coral, and Closed Lobophyllia.

 

Symphyllia sp. are usually creamy or pastel hues of greens, reds, creams, and muted browns with the valleys often having contrasting colors. At times, brighter green and white combinations can be found. They have been propagated in captivity with great success, leading to a variety of colors and combinations of colors. The names used by reef farmers are quite creative, such as Candy Apple Red Symphyllia, Minty Green Symphyllia, Red Twister, Baby Blue, Bleeding Apple Rainbow, Pink Rim Blue, Pink and Red Symphyllia, Nuclear Green, Boiling Point, and so forth.

 

The Symphyllia Brain Coral Is very closely related to the Lobophyllia genus, and though less common, they require much of the same care. This genus of corals can be confused with Lobophyllia, but are distinguished by the skeletal structure. Symphyllia corals have corallite walls that are joined or fused together, rather than having the separate corallite walls found on Lobophyllia species.

 

Like the popular Lobed Brain Coral Lobophyllia hemprichii, the Symphyllia Brain Coral is a good beginners large polyp stony (LPS) coral. Yet the Symphyllia Brain Coral is not as aggressive, and can actually be more tolerate of stings from other corals. For as hearty as these corals are though, they are sensitive to several soft corals, includingXenia and Litophyton species. Lack of growth and tissue recession is an indication that your brain is not happy.

 

The Symphyllia Brain Coral is one of the easiest of the LPS (large polyp stony) corals to care for, and it easy to propagate. Use moderate lighting, and a low to moderate water flow that is turbulent. Since they are found in several lighting environments, watch your coral to see how it responds in your tank and adjust the light accordingly. You can do this by placing the coral higher or lower in the tank. It is best to start at the lowest point and work up.

 

Scientific name  :

Family: Mussidae
Species: Symphyllia sp.

 

Status  : The following species from the Symphyllia genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species.

  • Symphyllia agaricia: Least Concern (LC)

  • Symphyllia erythraea: Least Concern (LC)

  • Symphyllia hassi: Vulnerable (VU)

  • Symphyllia radians: Least Concern (LC)

  • Symphyllia recta: Least Concern (LC)

  • Symphyllia valenciennesii: Least Concern (LC)

  • Symphyllia wilsoni: Least Concern (LC)

Difficulty of Care  : 

 

Symphyllia Coral Care: Like other Mussids, the Symphyllia sp. is easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for the beginner. Use moderate lighting and a low to moderate water flow that is turbulent. Since they are found in several lighting environments, watch your coral to see how it responds in your tank and adjust the light accordingly, by placing higher or lower in the tank. It is best to start at the lowest point and work up. Like other members of the Mussidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed. But they will morph to extend their tentacles day or night when food is present.

 

Foods / Feeding :

 

Symphyllia Coral Feeding: The Symphyllia genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.

 

n captivity, Symphyllia sp. does very well being be fed finely minced fish and shrimp flesh, as well as other small foods like mysis, rotifers, newly hatched brine shrimp or Cyclopeeze. Some have noticed a response with Phytoplankton as well. Feed once a week or depending on how much the coral is accepting food. Highly stocked tanks with fish resulting in foods drifting into the Symphyllia's tentacles may lower the frequency of spot feeding.

 

Aquarium Care :

 

Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.

 

The following water supplements are suggested for Symphyllia species: Trace elements and iodine may also be added.

 

  • Calcium:  400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)

  • Alkalinity:  3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)

  • Phosphates:  0, zero.

  • Magnesium:  1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.

  • Strontium:  8 - 10

 

Aquarium Parameters :

 

 A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Symphyllia Brain Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production, and dissolved organics. A mature tank is recommended.

 

Be sure to have proper water movement and lighting. Provide a low to moderate and turbulent water flow and moderate to high lighting for the best health. Place them securely to prevent them from toppling over and damaging their tissue.This is an peaceful species, and they tolerate their own species as well as other corals.

 

 

  • Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) nano reef or larger

  • Marine Lighting: Moderate to high

  • Temperature: 74° - 83° F (23° - 28° C)

  • Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.024 - 1.026

  • Water Movement: Low to moderate, turbulent

  • Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium  

  • Sex - Sexual differences  :   Unknown.

1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 .. .. 

1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5 > 6 > 7 .. .. 

bottom of page