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 various corals from different genera like Echinopora, Oxypora, Mycedium, and Lithophyllon, characterized by a loose grouping. They typically grow similarly to plating Montipora, displaying blue coloration with a purple rim under low light conditions.
Demands and Hardiness
Chalice corals are a conglomerate of diverse coral types, making care requirements relatively generalized. They thrive best in moderate lighting conditions, around 100 PAR, though they can tolerate more intense light up to 400 PAR. These corals exhibit vibrant fluorescence that shines under actinic LEDs, with coloration potentially fading if light is insufficient. They are moderate water flow enthusiasts, with excessive flow risking colony tipping due to their sail-like structure.
Lighting
For optimal health and coloration, moderate lighting around 100 PAR is recommended for Chalice corals. While they can withstand higher light levels, extreme intensity above 400 PAR may negatively impact their well-being. Actinic LEDs enhance their stunning fluorescence, with colors peaking in the winter months when light is less intense.
Water Flow
Moderate water movement is advised for Chalice corals to prevent detritus build-up that can create dead spots on colonies. Excessive flow should be avoided as it may topple over the colonies, considering their sail-shaped structure's susceptibility to catching strong currents.
Feeding
Chalice corals heavily rely on their zooxanthellae for nutrition but are surprisingly aggressive eaters. They consume Mysis Shrimp, small critters, and pellets within the 6 to 13mm range. Despite minimal polyp extension, time-lapse videos reveal their significant food intake, showing they consume various offerings, from frozen foods to pellets.
Propagation
Chalice corals are extensively propagated in captivity and are ideal for aquaculture. To enhance survival rates, cutting colonies into large sections for healing before fragmentation into frag-sized pieces is recommended. Certain varieties propagate more effectively than others, contributing to the diversity and resilience of these corals.
Localization & Habitat
Found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, Chalice corals inhabit islands such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat showcases their adaptability to varying conditions, reflecting the intricate beauty and importance of these corals in reef ecosystems.