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 are a diverse assortment of corals encompassing various genera such as Echinopora, Oxypora, Mycedium, and Lithophyllon. These corals exhibit a range of forms and colors, with unique features like protruding eye structures resembling mini candy corns.
Demands and Hardiness
Chalice Corals are relatively generalized in care requirements due to the diverse nature of the corals within this category. They can tolerate moderate lighting of around 100 PAR, with more intense lighting occasionally being tolerated but not recommended for prolonged periods. Proper lighting is essential for maintaining vivid coloration and overall health. These corals exhibit remarkable fluorescence, especially under actinic LED lighting.
Lighting
Moderate lighting around 100 PAR is recommended for Chalice Corals, although they can tolerate more intense light levels. However, extremely high light levels (over 400 PAR) may lead to color fading in some species. Chalices often display their most vibrant colors under actinic LED lights and may appear more muted in intense summer lighting, regaining their attractive hues in stable reef aquarium environments.
Water Flow
Chalice Corals thrive in moderate water movement conditions to prevent detritus buildup, which can create dead spots on the colonies. Excessive flow should be avoided, as strong currents can potentially topple chalice colonies due to their sail-like structure.
Feeding
Chalice Corals primarily rely on the products of their zooxanthellae for nutrition but are surprisingly voracious feeders, consuming various foods such as Mysis Shrimp, small critters, and pellets. Despite not displaying pronounced polyp extension during feeding, time-lapse videos have revealed their significant food intake. Regular feeding with a variety of food types contributes to their health and vibrancy.
Propagation
Chalice Corals are extensively propagated in captivity and are suitable candidates for aquaculture. The most effective propagation method involves cutting colonies into sizable sections and allowing them to heal before fragmenting them into smaller pieces for better survival rates.
Localization & Habitat
Chalice Corals are native to the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting various islands such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. They are found in diverse reef ecosystems within these regions, showcasing their adaptability to different conditions.