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Datasheet
| Care Description | Platygyra are an uncommon Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral that are commonly referred to as Brain Worm Corals. The name Platygyra is very loosely to describe any number of similar brain corals. When it comes to classification, there are a number of very similar looking corals that are a challenge to differentiate from one another. Not only do they look similar, on occasion they grow differently in captivity making them resemble another coral entirely. |
| Water Flow | Low - 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
Platygyra, also known as Brain Worm Corals, are uncommon Large Polyp Stony (LPS) corals with a bright red/orange center that transitions to gold towards the edges. Their bodies are predominantly lime green and shimmer with sparkles. These corals can sometimes be challenging to differentiate from similar-looking species, with growth patterns in captivity occasionally causing them to resemble other corals.
Demands and Hardiness
Platygyra require proper spacing from neighboring corals due to their long sweeper tentacles. They thrive when fed a diet of Zooplankton, Mysis, and powdered or pellet food in sizes ranging from 0.1mm to approximately 13mm. Adequate feeding is crucial for the long-term success of keeping Platygyra brains as they possess small mouths along their trenches and prefer smaller food particles. They are known to be somewhat delicate and can deteriorate rapidly if subjected to stress.
Lighting
These corals do well in moderate to low lighting conditions and exhibit consistent coloration despite fluctuations in light intensity and spectrum. While they are less sensitive to light changes compared to other brain coral species, it is recommended to provide low to medium light levels to err on the side of caution. Platygyra can be fragile and susceptible to rapid decline if they experience light-induced stress.
Water Flow
Platygyra thrive in low to moderate water movement, tolerating both ends of the flow spectrum in reef aquariums without significant health differences. Lower flow is advantageous during feeding times, as these corals do not exhibit aggressive feeding behavior. Directing strong flow at a colony of Platygyra should be avoided, as excessive water movement can stress the coral and lead to skin damage.
Feeding
For feeding, a mix of meaty foods such as pieces of mysis shrimp or small pellet food is recommended. Platygyra have small mouths along their trenches that are suitable for consuming smaller food particles, ensuring they receive adequate nutrition for their overall health and vitality.
Propagation
Platygyra corals have been successfully fragmented for propagation purposes, indicating that this genus can be effectively propagated through fragmentation techniques.
Localization & Habitat
Platygyra corals are commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically in islands such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. They are most frequently sighted in locations like Indonesia and Australia, thriving in the tropical waters of these regions.