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Datasheet
| Care Description | Blastomussa are an interesting stony coral because from afar they resemble mushroom corallimorphs. They are a relatively easy coral to care for with modest requirements for both flow and light. In fact, we have found they tend to do best in low light conditions. They are also easy to feed and later propagate making them a great choice for reef aquarists looking to try some of the more exotic large polyp stony corals. Please see below for additional care tips for Blastomussa. |
| Water Flow | Moderate |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.026 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Blue Raven Blastomussa merletti is a rare color morph featuring a neon red body with a bright splash of blue across its face and gold tones throughout its body. From a distance, Blastomussa corals bear a resemblance to mushroom corallimorphs, making them a visually intriguing addition to reef aquariums.
Demands and Hardiness
Blastomussa corals have modest requirements regarding water flow and lighting, thriving best in low light conditions. They are relatively easy to care for and adaptable to various flow intensities, showing similar health in both low and strong flow aquarium setups. Feeding plays a crucial role in their long-term success, with a diet consisting of Mysis, Krill, and medium to large-sized pellets.
Lighting
Blastomussa corals prefer very dim lighting, showcasing more vibrant colors and better expansion under subdued light. Excessive exposure to bright light can lead to issues like inflated polyps or bubbles developing within their flesh. Therefore, keeping them under modest lighting conditions can promote their well-being and coloration.
Water Flow
Moderate water movement is recommended for Blastomussa corals, as they do not exhibit specific preferences for the type of flow they receive. They have been observed to thrive in aquariums with both low and strong water flow, suggesting their adaptability to varying flow conditions.
Feeding
Feeding Blastomussa corals a mix of meaty foods such as krill or Mysis shrimps is crucial for their health and longevity in captivity. In the absence of phytoplankton, finely ground meaty foods with a paste-like consistency can serve as suitable alternatives for their dietary needs.
Propagation
Blastomussa corals have been successfully fragmented for propagation purposes, making them an excellent candidate for aquaculture. Their ease of propagation adds to their appeal as a choice for reef aquarists interested in experimenting with large polyp stony corals.
Localization & Habitat
Blastomussa corals can be found in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically in areas like Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. While many specimens originate from Australia, some of the most striking rare color morphs come from Indonesia, showcasing the diversity and beauty of these unique corals.