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Datasheet
| Care Description | Rhodactis Mushroom Care: Rhodactis mushrooms are a great choice for both beginning hobbyists looking for hardy additions to their reef tank as well as experienced collectors looking to add a potentially rare showpiece to their aquarium. These corallimorphs come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, some of which are highly sought-after by reef enthusiasts. In fact, the most expensive coral in the market today is a variety of Rhodactis called a Bounce Mushroom. Luckily for most hobbyists, the vast majority of these mushrooms are affordably priced and do not command a king’s ransom. Please see below for additional care tips for Rhodactis. |
| Water Flow | Low |
| 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
Rhodactis mushrooms, also known as "hairy mushrooms," are a popular choice for reef tank hobbyists due to their wide range of colors and patterns. They are sought after for their beauty and ease of care. The Lemon Lime Rhodactis Mushroom, in particular, displays a bright green base with yellow bursts from the center, making it a stunning addition to any aquarium.
Demands and Hardiness
Rhodactis mushrooms are highly favored by both novice and experienced hobbyists for their hardiness and adaptability. They are relatively easy to care for, making them ideal for beginners looking to enhance their tank with vibrant corallimorphs. Additionally, some species like the Elephant Ear variety exhibit aggressive feeding behavior, preying on fish by anesthetizing and swallowing them as they sleep.
Lighting
For optimal growth and health, Rhodactis mushrooms thrive in low-light environments. Exposing them to bright light can lead to white scarring, caused by oxidative radicals within their bodies. Therefore, it is recommended to maintain lower light levels to prevent any light-induced stress or damage.
Water Flow
When setting up a reef display for Rhodactis mushrooms, it is crucial to provide them with a relatively low-flow area. High water flow can stress the mushrooms, causing them not to fully extend. These corallimorphs exhibit their best growth and extension in environments with minimal water movement.
Feeding
Rhodactis mushrooms can be fed a diet consisting of Mysis, Krill, and medium to large pellets. While some species are more aggressive feeders than others, most will fold up over meaty foods in an onion-like shape. This feeding behavior is essential for their nutrition and overall well-being in the aquarium.
Propagation
Rhodactis mushrooms have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them a sustainable option for aquaculture. With extensive propagation efforts, a continuous and ethical harvest of these mushrooms can be achieved, reducing the need to harvest them from the wild.
Localization & Habitat
Found abundantly throughout the Indo-Pacific region, Rhodactis corallimorphs are commonly harvested from various locations such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their widespread distribution in these tropical waters highlights their natural habitat and showcases their adaptability to different reef ecosystems.