More info
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
Blastomussa corals are stony corals that bear a resemblance to mushroom corallimorphs from a distance, with the Joker Blastomussa merletti species showcasing a striking blend of mint green and purple colors. These corals are relatively simple to care for, making them an attractive option for reef aquarists interested in large polyp stony corals.
Demands and Hardiness
Blastomussa corals have modest requirements for both water flow and lighting, thriving best in low light conditions. They are adaptable to moderate water movement, displaying good health in various flow intensities without significant differences observed. Additionally, they are hardy and can tolerate different flow types.
Lighting
Blastomussa corals prefer very dim lighting, as bright lights can cause issues such as inflated or bubble development within their polyps. Under subdued lighting, these corals tend to expand better and exhibit more vibrant colors. Therefore, reef tanks with modest lighting levels are well-suited for Blastomussa corals.
Water Flow
Moderate water movement is recommended for Blastomussa corals, as they do not display a strong preference for a specific flow type. They have been successfully maintained in both low and strong flow reef aquariums, showing consistent health in different flow conditions.
Feeding
Feeding plays a crucial role in ensuring the long-term success of Blastomussa corals. They can be fed a variety of meaty foods, including Mysis, Krill, and medium to large-sized pellets. Finely ground meaty foods can also be administered if phytoplankton is unavailable, ensuring that the food has a paste-like consistency before feeding the corals.
Propagation
Blastomussa corals have been effectively propagated through fragmentation, making them an excellent candidate for aquaculture. Their ability to propagate successfully contributes to their popularity among aquarists interested in expanding their coral collections.
Localization & Habitat
These corals are found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in locations such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. While many Blastomussa specimens originate from Australia, some of the most unique and rare color morphs are discovered in Indonesia, adding to the diversity of this coral species.