More info
Datasheet
| Care Description | Chalice Corals are a broad collection of corals that are loosely jumbled together. Several different genera of corals are represented ranging from Echinopora, Oxypora, Mycedium, and even Lithophyllon. As such, care requirements are going to be generalized more than other corals because these are very different corals that all get lumped in together. Please see below for more care tips for Chalice Corals. |
| 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
Chalice Corals encompass a diverse range of coral genera such as Echinopora, Oxypora, Mycedium, and Lithophyllon, resulting in a varied and visually captivating display. These corals often feature vibrant colors and intricate patterns, making them a popular choice among reef enthusiasts.
Demands and Hardiness
Chalice corals require moderate lighting, with around 100 PAR recommended for optimal coloration and health. While they can tolerate more intense light, exposure to over 400 PAR may lead to color fading. These corals thrive best under actinic LED lighting, showcasing impressive fluorescence. Moderate water flow is essential to prevent detritus accumulation and ensure the colonies remain stable.
Lighting
For Chalice Corals, moderate lighting of approximately 100 PAR is ideal, though higher intensities can be tolerated. It is crucial to avoid extremely intense light levels exceeding 400 PAR, as this can result in color fading. Actinic LED lighting enhances the vibrant colors and fluorescence of these corals, with optimal viewing typically during the winter months.
Water Flow
Maintaining a moderate water flow is crucial for Chalice Corals. Inadequate flow can lead to detritus settling on the colonies, creating dead spots, while excessive flow may cause the coral to topple over due to its sail-like structure. Ensuring balanced water movement promotes the overall health and stability of these captivating corals.
Feeding
Chalice corals heavily rely on their zooxanthellae for nutrition but are surprisingly aggressive feeders. Although they do not exhibit pronounced polyp extension, time-lapse videos reveal their voracious appetite for various foods such as Mysis Shrimp, small critters, and pellets. Regular feeding with a diverse range of food enhances the growth and vibrancy of Chalice Corals.
Propagation
Chalice Corals are excellent candidates for propagation and aquaculture efforts. Propagation methods often involve cutting colonies into large sections, allowing them to heal before further fragmentation into frag-sized pieces. Certain varieties may propagate more successfully than others, contributing to the sustainable cultivation and expansion of these diverse coral species.
Localization & Habitat
Chalice Corals are commonly found across the Indo-Pacific region, including areas like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat is characterized by diverse marine ecosystems with moderate to intense lighting levels, showcasing the inherent beauty and adaptability of these captivating coral species.