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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
Blastomussa corals are intriguing stony coral species that visually resemble mushroom corallimorphs from a distance, standing out with their vibrant colors. These corals are relatively easy to care for, with moderate requirements in terms of water flow and lighting, thriving particularly in low light conditions. Known for their striking appearance and ease of maintenance, Blastomussa corals are favored among reef aquarists looking to incorporate exotic large polyp stony corals into their setups.
Demands and Hardiness (Setup)
Blastomussa corals have modest demands, making them suitable for aquarists of different experience levels. They thrive in moderate water movement, showing adaptability to various flow strengths. Interestingly, these corals do not display a strong preference for a specific type of water flow, as they have been observed to thrive equally well in both low and strong flow aquariums without showing significant differences in health. Additionally, Blastomussa corals are resilient and can adapt to fluctuating conditions, making them a hardy choice for reef tanks.
Lighting
Blastomussa corals stand out as one of the few coral species that prefer dim lighting conditions. They exhibit better expansion and develop more vibrant colors when placed under subdued lighting. In contrast, these corals may struggle under bright lights, with excessive exposure potentially causing abnormal inflation or the development of bubbles within their polyps. Aquarists with reef tanks featuring modest lighting levels will find Blastomussa corals thriving optimally in such environments, showcasing their unique light preferences.
Water Flow
Moderate water movement is recommended for Blastomussa corals, as they show resilience to different flow strengths. Whether placed in low or strong flow setups, these corals maintain their health and growth without displaying significant differences based on the flow rate. This versatility in adapting to various water flow conditions makes Blastomussa corals a suitable choice for aquarists seeking coral species that can thrive in a range of flow environments within their tanks.
Feeding
Feeding is considered a crucial aspect of maintaining the long-term health and success of Blastomussa corals. These corals can be fed a variety of meaty foods, such as Mysis, Krill, and medium to large-sized pellets. Providing a mix of these foods, including pieces of krill or mysis shrimp, contributes to the nutritional needs of Blastomussa corals. In instances where phytoplankton is not readily available, finely ground meaty foods with a paste-like consistency can be offered to ensure the corals receive adequate nutrition for their growth and vitality.
Propagation
Blastomussa corals have shown successful propagation through fragmentation, making them an ideal candidate for aquaculture efforts. This means that aquarists can propagate and cultivate new colonies of Blastomussa corals with relative ease, further contributing to the availability and sustainability of these captivating stony coral species within the reef-keeping hobby.
Localization & Habitat
Blastomussa corals are native to the Indo-Pacific region, specifically found in islands like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. While many Blastomussa specimens originate from Australia, some of the most remarkable and rare color morphs can be found in Indonesian waters. The diverse habitats in which Blastomussa corals are naturally distributed highlight their adaptability to varying environmental conditions, reflecting their ability to thrive in different reef ecosystems across the Indo-Pacific region.