Branching Coral, Cyphastrea Coral
Cyphastrea decadia
The Lesser Knob Coral can be extremely beautiful, having bright contrasting colors in aquacultured specimens!
Aquacultured corals of the Cyphastrea genus are extremely beautiful, and the Lesser Knob Coral Cyphastrea decadia is no exception. The natural colors of this group include gray, brown, cream, green, yellow, and white.
Aquacultured specimens have been developed into much more colorful animals! These varieties can include shades of reds and oranges, pinks, purples, blues, and lavenders. The colors often contrast, with the background or surface area, known as the 'coenosteum' being one color, while the 'corallites', the raised areas where the polyps reside, being another. Aquacultured specimens are nothing short of amazing!
The Cyphastrea genus is well defined. The corallites all have separate walls within the colony and the very center of the corallite, the calices, are less than 3 mm in diameter. The tissue in between the corallites, the coenosteum, has a grainy surface. Cyphastrea corals can resembleEnchinopora species and Plesiastrea versipora. However these other corals have larger corallites, can often have costae contact between the corallites, and the coenosteum is generally smooth rather than grainy.
The Lesser Knob Coral C. decadia is a unique member of the Cyphastrea genus because it forms into a branching coral. Cyphastrea corals usually occur as massive encrusting colonies in the wild, with very few having a branching form. However the Lesser Know Coral has a growth form with both axial and radial branches. Thus, it is also known as the Branching Coral.
The C. decadia looks similar in appearance to certain Acropora corals as their polyps are on the end of a branch. These corallites, though small, are very attractive. Being so small they often have a 'fuzzy' appearance, but with close inspection you can see that they are actually star-like. This is because they have 10 to 12 tiny ridges on the outside wall of the corallite, known as costae, which gives them this starry appearance. Also because of their small size, they will sometimes be called a small polyp stony (SPS) coral rather than a large polyp stony (LPS) coral like the majority of the corals in the Faviidae family.
The Lesser Knob Coral is a fairly hardy coral. The Cyphastrea genus in general is moderate to easy in care and will do well in normal reef conditions. They like a moderate water movement with moderate to low lighting. Like other members of the Faviidae family, the polyps come out at night. They can be fed small foods like rotifers, newly hatched brine shrimp, mysis, zooplankton type foods, and other foods for filter feeders. C. decadia is said to prefer lower lighting, and If your lighting is lower they should be fed more often.
Scientific name Family: Faviidae
Species: Cyphastrea decadia
Status : The following species from the Cyphastrea genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species:
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Cyphastrea agassiz: Vulnerable (VU)
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Cyphastrea chalcidicum: Least Concern (LC
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Cyphastrea decadia: Least Concern (LC)
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Cyphastrea japonica: Least Concern (LC
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Cyphastrea microphthalma: Least Concern (LC)
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Cyphastrea ocellina: Vulnerable (VU)
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Cyphastrea serailia: Least Concern (LC)
Difficulty of Care :
Cyphastrea Coral Care: The Cyphastrea genus in general is moderate to easy in care and will do well in normal reef conditions. The Lesser Knob Coral is a fairly hardy coral. They like a moderate water movement with moderate to low lighting. Like other members of the Faviidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.
Foods / Feeding :
Cyphastrea Coral Feeding: The Cyphastrea genus, like other stony corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive the majority of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.
In captivity, the Lesser Knob Coral needs to be fed at night when their tentacles are out. Feed rotifers, newly hatched brine shrimp, mysis, and zooplankton type foods, including foods for filter feeders. They do need to be fed at the very least, once a week, and grow quite well with regular feedings. C. decadia is said to prefer lower lighting, and if your lighting is lower, like other Flaviidae, they should be fed more often.
Aquarium Care :
Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth. They secrete mucus, so along with a good water flow, carbon may be used.
The following water supplements are suggested for Cyphastrea species:
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Calcium: 400 to 430 ppm. If a stony coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
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Alkalinity: 3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
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Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
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Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
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Strontium: 8 - 10
Aquarium Parameters :
A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Lesser Knob Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production. A mature tank is recommended.
Be sure to have proper water movement and provide sufficient lighting. It needs moderate to low light, but will usually will be able to adapt to higher lighting conditions. Higher lighting may bring out its color better, while it may extend more under lower light. It may be kept under normal output fluorescents, to more intense light sources including metal halides. Provide moderate water movement for the best health. This is a peaceful species, but it does need distance between it and other corals.
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Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallons (190 L) or larger
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Marine Lighting: Moderate to low, will usually adapt to higher lighting.
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Temperature: 74° - 80° F (23° - 27° C)
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Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.024 - 1.026
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Water Movement: Moderate
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Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium
Brain Coral, Closed Brain Coral, Maze Coral
Platygyra Sp.
With its broad twisting, turning walls and valleys, the Maze Brain Coral is truly gorgeous!
The Maze Brain Coral Platygyra sp. has beautifully contrasting walls and valleys. In the wild they form massive colonies that can be either flat or dome shaped. They are thought to be more recently evolved corals, with some of the species differences being more difficult to separate unless they are observed in the same location.
The Platygyra genus are commonly meandroid, meaning they develop valleys. On occasion they may also have cerioid, meaning shared walls, mixed in. Some common names these corals are know for are Maze Brain Coral, Brain Coral, Closed Brain Coral, Ridge Coral, Worm Coral, Maze Coral, Brain Worm Platygyra Coral, and Green Maze Coral.
These corals are similar in appearance to the valley forming Goniastreaspecies, as well as the Australogyra and Leptoria genera. However thePlatygyra genus differ from Goniastrea in that they lack protruding rounded lobes originating from the septa. They differ from Leptoria in that they are much less sinuous with wider valleys and heavier corallite walls, and from Australogyra which has a branching growth form.
The Brain Maze Coral or Maze Coral P. lamellina is the most common species in the trade, which could be due to its abundance in the shallower waters. P. daedalea is another commonly available species. Others include P. sinensis and P. pini.
The Platygyra genus is one of those great corals that will keep its original color under various lighting intensities. Typically the walls are brown or dark gray with the valleys being gray or green, though there is a wide variation of the colors. They can range from red and green or white and chocolate brown color combinations.
This genus is moderate to care for. They are not as hardy as other members of the Flaviidae family, and are more likely to bleach and have tissue loss from stress. However once acclimated, if you provide these corals with regular feedings, they will grow quickly. The Platygyra genus has been propagated in captivity on local levels.
Scientific name Family: Faviidae
Species: Platygyra sp.
Status The following species from the Platygyra genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species:
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Platygyra contorta: Least Concern (LC)
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Platygyra crosslandi: Near Threatened (NT)
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Platygyra daedalea: Least Concern (LC)
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Platygyra lamellina: Near Threatened (NT)
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Platygyra pini: Least Concern (LC)
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Platygyra ryukyuensis: Near Threatened (NT)
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Platygyra sinensis: Least Concern (LC)
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Platygyra verweyi: Near Threatened (NT)
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Platygyra yaeyamaensis: Vulnerable (VU)
Here is a brief .. For more information click on the primary name ..
Difficulty of Care :
Platygyra Coral Care: A Brain Maze Coral or Maze Coral is moderate to care for. They are not as hardy as other members of the Flaviidae family, and are more likely to bleach and have tissue loss from stress. If you receive one in a shipment, it is wise to flush the coral with fresh sea water. They produce a lot of mucus that can foul the water and cause stress, leading to disease. Like other members of the Faviidae family, the polyps tentacles come out at night to feed.
Foods / Feeding :
Platygyra Coral Feeding: The Platygyra genus, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.
In captivity, the Brain Maze Coral needs to be fed at night when their tentacles are out. Feed rotifers, newly hatched brine shrimp, mysis, and zooplankton type foods, including foods for filter feeders. They do need to be fed at the very least, once a week, and grow quite well with regular feedings.
Aquarium Care :
Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth. They secrete mucus, so along with a good water flow, carbon may be used.
The following water supplements are suggested for Platygyra species:
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Calcium: 400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
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Alkalinity: 3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
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Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
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Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
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Strontium: 8 - 10
Aquarium Parameters :
A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Brain Maze Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production. A mature tank is recommended.
Be sure to have proper water movement and provide sufficient lighting. It needs moderate to high light and a moderate water movement for the best health. This is a semi-aggressive species, and does need distance between it and other corals.
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Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallons (190 L) or larger
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Marine Lighting: Moderate to high
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Temperature: 75° - 83° F (24° - 28° C)
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Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.024 - 1.026
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Water Movement: Moderate
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Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium
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Sex - Sexual differences Unknown.
Torch Coral, Green Trumpet Coral, Column Brain Coral
Caulastrea echinulata
True to its name, the Trumpet Coral has polyps that have a 'trumpet-like' shape!
The polyps of the Trumpet Coral Caulastrea echinulata grow close together and are shaped like the horn of a trumpet. Each Trumpet polyp grows on its own stalk, yet they are tightly compacted. This species gets its common name from the the fact that the oral disc is "deeper" inside, and the corallite walls are taller than those on other Caulastrea species. Some common names these corals are know for are Trumpet Coral, Torch Coral, Green Trumpet Coral, Spruce Caulastrea, and Column Brain Coral.
The top of each stalk of C. echinulata has polyps with long meandering thin corallites that form a number of interesting shapes. For instance, corallites can look like a stretched out letter "B" or number "3", have an hour glass shape, or have even more complex curves and twists, usually with several mouths.
The Trumpet Coral is generally a solid color, usually grayish green, with very little difference in the color of the center polyp. It is very similar to its close relative, the Candycane Coral C. furcata, but there are some distinctions that can be picked out with a discerning eye. The main differences in appearance are that the trumpet is generally less colorful, and the polyps extend further from the skeleton at the edges giving it the look of a trumpet. Also, the trumpets' polyps are much more closely packed to give the appearance of one large coral. Another close relative, the Bullseye Coral C. curvatais even more openly branched than the Trumpet Coral. It is also captive propagated and readily available in some very attractive varieties.
The C. Echinulata is easy to care for, it can be recommended to beginners. It likes a medium to low water movement and low to moderate lighting. These corals will expand in the morning before the lights are turned on and put out a circle of long tentacles similar to the pistols in a flower. Very interesting to watch! They can be fed when the tentacles extend but it is not necessary to do so. It is semi-aggressive if it is close to other corals.
Scientific name
Family: Faviidae
Species: Caulastrea echinulata
Status
The C. echinulata is on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species as VU (Vulnerable).
Difficulty of Care :
Caulastrea Coral Care: The C. Echinulata is easy to care for, it can be recommended to beginners. Low to moderate lighting and a medium to low water flow is recommended. They are very sensitive to metal halides, lighting from these sources needs to be indirect. Also, make sure that detritus does not build up between the colony branches.
These corals will expand in the morning before the lights are turned on and put out a circle of long tentacles similar to the pistols in a flower. Very interesting to watch! They can be fed when the tentacles extend but it is not necessary to do so.
Foods / Feeding :
Caulastrea Coral Feeding: The Caulastrea corals, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive some of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.
In captivity, they can be fed when their tentacles are out, but they will come out during the day if food is detected. Feed finely minced seafood of any kind as well as mysis, and similar sized foods. They do need to be fed at the very least twice a week, and grow quite well with regular feedings. It does help to turn the water pumps off during feeding.
Aquarium Care :
Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.
The following water supplements are suggested for Caulastrea species:
-
Calcium: 400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
-
Alkalinity: 3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
-
Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
-
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
-
Strontium: 8 - 10
Aquarium Parameters :
A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Trumpet Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production. A mature tank is recommended.
Be sure to have proper water movement and provide sufficient lighting. It likes a medium to low water flow and low to moderate lighting. They are very sensitive to metal halides, and need to have indirect lighting from these sources. These corals will expand in the morning before the lights are turned on and put out a circle of long tentacles similar to the pistols in a flower. They can be fed when the tentacles extend but it is not necessary to do so. This is a semi-aggressive species when close to other corals.
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Minimum Tank Size / Length: Nano tanks and larger
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Marine Lighting: Low to moderate
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Temperature: 74° - 83° F (23° - 28° C)
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Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025
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Water Movement: Moderate / turbulent, surging currents are said to help increase polyp division.
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Water Region: All areas of the aquarium, depending on lighting.
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Sex : Sexual differences: Unknown.
Family: Fungiidae
The Disk Corals from the Fungia genus are quite hardy creatures that easily move about on the substrate. They are solitary, free-living corals and they use water and current to get where they want to be. They can actually move up to 12" per day (30 cm). They have also been known to climb slight slopes up to a 30 degree angle, and to right themselves if they get flipped over.
As the name implies, the Disk Coral Fungia spp. are mostly round, though an occasional specimen will be elongated. They range from saucer-like shapes to dome shapes and can also be dented. Other common names they are known by are Rough Feather Coral, Common Mushroom Coral, Elongate Mushroom Coral, Distorted Mushroom Coral, Plate Coral, Disc Coral, Tongue Coral, Fungus Coral, and Chinaman Hat Coral.
Disk Corals are awesome animals with the unique beauty and characteristics of the Fungiidae family. They come in a wide array of colors that make them an attractive addition to your display. They are most commonly green or purple, but just name the color and the Fungia genus comes in it.
Disk Corals have short tapering tentacles, which in the wild retract during the day, coming out only at night. In the Aquarium they will generally stay partly extended during the day, though quickly retracting if disturbed. These tentacles are nestled between the blade-like septal teeth that radiate out from the center. When young the Fungia spp. are connected with a stalk to rock work. Over time as the coral develops, the stalk gradually weakens and breaks, leaving a central scar. The scar is then gradually overgrown.
All species of Fungia have wide slit-like mouths, often housing various parasites. In fact a bivalve gastropodFaungiacava eilatensis, is a parasite that lives exclusively within the mouths of Fungia. It is not known why the mouth of the Fungia spp. are so large. But Disk Corals have been observed eating jellyfish, possibly as a main source of food for them in nature.
The Disk Coral can be easy to care for if it has have proper lighting and water movement, proper substrate and placement, and regular daily feeding. Low to moderate water movement is needed and it likes bright light. This coral sends out feeder tentacles at night. It also excretes a heavy mucus coat in response to rough handling or when coming in contact with other corals. The mucus contains strong toxins that can severely damage other corals that are not in its same family. Care must be taken in the placement of this coral to prevent fatal injury to other types of corals.
Scientific name Family: Fungiidae
Species: Fungia sp.
Distribution / Background :
Fungia Coral Information: The Fungia genus was described by Lamarck in 1801. There are approximately 65 nominal species, around 32 which are true species, with 15 being found around Australia. Some common names these corals are know for are Mushroom Coral, Plate Coral, Tongue Coral, Disc Coral, Fungus Coral, and Chinaman Hat Coral. Also some variations on these such as Rough Feather Coral, Common Mushroom Coral, Elongate Mushroom Coral, and Distorted Mushroom Coral. The Fungia genus has been propagated in captivity.
Where Fungia Corals Are Found: Fungia genus are found in the Western Central Pacific, in the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, the Indo-West Pacific, the Western Indian Ocean from Gulf of Alden to Seychelles, and in the Northwest Pacific in Taiwan.
Fungia Coral Habitat: The Fungia genus inhabit reef slopes on the flat areas between the lagoons and the reef. They are found on rubble or soft bottom in areas that are protected from strong water movement. They are found at depths from 0 to 131 feet (0 - 40 m), though many are found in much shallower waters to depths of 82 feet (25 m).
When they get sediment on them, they have the ability to "unbury" themselves in the substrate. They can also right themselves if they are overturned. This is done by filling their tissue with large amount of water, thus becoming more buoyant, and then using the water current as their mode of transportation.
Status The following species from the Fungia genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species:
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F. concinna: Least Concern (LC)
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F. costulata: Least Concern (LC)
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F. curvata: Vulnerable (VU)
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F. cyclolites: Least Concern (LC)
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F. distorta: Least Concern (LC) - Mushroom Stony Coral
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F. fragilis: Least Concern (LC)
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F. fralinae: Least Concern (LC)
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F. fungites: Near Threatened (NT) - Common Mushroom Coral
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F. granulosa: Least Concern (LC)
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F. hexagonalis: Least Concern (LC)
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F. horrida: Least Concern (LC)
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F. moluccensis: Least Concern (LC)
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F. paumotensis: Least Concern (LC) - Elongate Mushroom Coral
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F. repanda: Least Concern (LC)
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F. scabra: Least Concern (LC)
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F. scruposa: Least Concern (LC)
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F. scutaria: Least Concern (LC) - Oval Mushroom Coral, Disc Coral
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F. seychellensis: Vulnerable (VU)
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F. sinensis: Least Concern (LC)
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F. somervillei: Least Concern (LC)
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F. spinifer: Least Concern (LC)
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F. taiwanensis: Vulnerable (VU)
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F. tenuis: Least Concern (LC)
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F. vaughani: Least Concern (LC)
Candycane Coral polyps are
more colorful and loosely packed
Trumpet Coral polyps extend out
like a trumpet and are tightly packed
Differences between: Candycane Corals and Trumpet Corals
1-Disk Coral
Mushroom Coral, Plate Coral, Tongue Coral,
Fungus Coral, Chinaman Hat Coral
Fungia Sp.
The Disk Coral is a mover, it looks stationary but watch out... it will even climb and flip!
Description :
What do Fungia Corals look like: The Disk Coral Fungia sp. is a free-living creature that is quite mobile. They will travel by inflating their tissue and using current to move. They have saucer to dome shapes that can be dented or elongated. All species of Fungia have wide slit-like mouths, often housing various parasites. They can have one mouth or more mouths with long septa that radiate from the center all the way to the end. Some septa start further back and are smaller than the main ones
Fungia spp. have short tapering tentacles, which in the wild retract during the day, coming out only at night. In the Aquarium they will generally stay partly extended during the day, though quickly retracting if disturbed. These tentacles are nestled between the blade-like septal teeth that radiate out from the center. When young the Fungia spp. are connected with a stalk to rock work. Over time as the coral develops, the stalk gradually weakens and breaks, leaving a central scar. The scar is then gradually overgrown.
The Disk Coral comes in a wide array of colors that make them an attractive addition to your display. They are most commonly green or purple, but just name the color and the Fungia genus comes in it. Some of the more common Fungia spp. are described here:
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F. distorta: The Mushroom Stony Coral is round with an almost flower pedal division in the skeleton.
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F. fungites: The Common Mushroom Coral has triangular septal teeth (long thin bones that run across the top of the fungia) and are brown or mottled. This species can get up to 11" (28 cm) and it is a shallower water dweller.
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F. echinata: The Rough Feather Coral can get up to 39" (100 cm)! They are slightly elongated with a 3 to 1 or 3 to 1.5 length to width ratio. This is a deeper water fungia.
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F. paumotensis: The Elongate Mushroom Coral can grow up to 10" (25 cm). It is, of course elongated with a central arch that runs the same distance from the perimeter, making an elongated rise in the middle.
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F. scutaria: The Oval Mushroom Coral or Disc Coral has long tentacles and can tolerate temperatures from 74 - 83 F (23 - 28 C), which is a little warmer range than other Fungia like. They are smaller, only reaching just under 7" (17 cm).
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F. simplex: The Tongue coral has several mouths in the ridge that runs down the middle of this long fungia.
Difficulty of Care :
Fungia Coral Care: The Disk Coral Fungia sp. can be easy to care for if it has have proper lighting and water movement, proper substrate and placement, and regular daily feeding. This coral excretes a heavy mucus coat in response to rough handling or when coming in contact with other corals. The mucus contains strong toxins that can severely damage other corals that are not in its same family. Care must be taken in the placement of this coral to prevent fatal injury to other types of corals.
Foods / Feeding :
Fungia Coral Feeding: The Fungia corals, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive many of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.
In captivity, these corals need to be fed at least daily. They also need to be fed more often under lower lighting conditions. Feeding tentacles are usually visible at night. Fungiids also form mucous nets, at that time that you can put small amounts of shredded meat on this net.
Aquarium Care :
Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.
The following water supplements are suggested for Fungia species:
-
Calcium: 400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
-
Alkalinity: 3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
-
Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
-
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
-
Strontium: 8 - 10
Aquarium Parameters :
A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Disk Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production. Have an open area of soft substrate or a rubble bottom for this animal, and do not put it on rock work.
Provide a low to moderate water movement and medium to strong light. Place them on a soft substrates or rubble at the bottom of the tank The Disk Coral does not attach to a surface (rock, substrate, etc.). It is quite capable of movement and may move itself around a tank to find its own favorable position (as will other fungiids). Though peaceful with other Fungiids, this coral can be semi-aggressive toward other corals. It needs to be placed where it cannot 'walk' up to corals that are not in the Fungiidae family.
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Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallons (190 L) or larger
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Marine Lighting: Moderate to high
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Temperature: 74° - 81° F (23° - 27° C)
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Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.026
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Water Movement: Low to moderate, but not strong enough to remove the feeding mucous net.
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Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium
Compatibility and Social Behaviors :
Fungia coral is peaceful with pretty much all other genus and species within the Faviidae family. However it can be aggressive toward other corals, using their mucous net as a weapon, causing necrosis. With that in mind, place your coral where it cannot "walk" up to another substrate dweller that is not in the Fungiidae family.
Sex - Sexual differences :
Unknown.
Breeding and Reproduction :
The large polyp stony (LPS) corals are male and female and can reproduce both sexually and asexually. In the wild they reproduce sexually by releasing eggs and sperm at the same time, resulting in a fertilized egg which then forms into a free-swimming planula larva. Eventually the planula larvae settles onto the substrate, becoming plankters. This then forms a tiny polyp which begins to excrete calcium carbonate and develops into a coral. Planula larvae are extremely vulnerable to predation, and very few survive.
The Fungia genus will also reproduce asexually. Daughter colonies/polyps may form and they will form offspring from broken pieces. They have been known to start regenerating on a supposedly dead skeleton if left in the aquarium, producing daughter polyps. They will also bud new daughter polyps off from their edge, or decalcify themselves to regenerate a new offspring.
In captivity, propagation of Fungia spp. can be done by encouraging budding of daughter colonies by scoring the tissue in between the "teeth" of the coral. Make sure the animal has been well fed and is healthy before attempting this type of fragmentation. Simply breaking the coral in half with gloves by using a wedge and hammer is crude, but works. To get a cleaner, more precise frag, using a dremel or other motorized saw works beautifully. You can cut pie shaped frags from a whole animal if you wish and they respond quite well as long as they can recover in clean water and are well fed.
Potential Problems :
The Fungia genus should not be expanded when removing it from the water. Make sure to gently shake the coral until the tissue has receded before exposing it to the air. If they are not fed, they will die, since they have carbon requirements.
Availability :
Fungia Corals for Sale: The Disk Coral Fungia sp. is very easy to find at pet shops and on line. Online they can run about $30.00 to $60.00 USD or more depending on size and/or color.
References :
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Animal-World References: Marine and Reef
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Harry Erhardt and Horst Moosleitner, Marine Atlas Volume 2, Invertebrates (Baensch Marine Atlas), Mergus Verlag GmbH, Revised edition, 2005
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Eric Borneman, Aquarium Corals : Selection, Husbandry, and Natural History , TFH Publications, 2001
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Anthony Calfo, Book of Coral Propagation, Volume 1 Edition 2: Reef Gardening for Aquarists, Reading Trees; 2nd edition, 2007
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J.E.N. Veron, Corals of Australia and the Indo-Pacific , University of Hawaii Press; 2 Rev Ed edition, 1993
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Ronald L. Shimek, Guide to Marine Invertebrates: 500+ Essential-to-Know Aquarium Species, Microcosm, 2005
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Bob Goemans, Cycloseris, Fungia, Heliofungia, Herpolitha and others - Family Fungiidae, Animal Library, Saltwatercorner.com
The Plate Coral Heliofungia actiniformis is the only member of its genus. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the Fungia genus as their skeletons only differ in detail. This was the case until coral biologists became aware of the differing sizes and shapes of the polyps. TheHeliofungia coral has the largest polyps of all the stony corals. Both of these large polyp stony (LPS) corals are found in the same types of habitats though the range of H. actiniformis may be a little more restricted. On the reef these corals generally inhabit shallow areas in calm lagoons on sandy or muddy bottoms.
The Plate Coral is also called the Long Tentacle Plate Coral. It has a round disk shape like the Disk Coral Fungia sp., yet it is easily distinguised by its large, long tentacles topped with knobby tips. They are usually brown or olive with white tips, but sometimes are bright green, dark purple, or yellow. Pink tips and solid pink tentacles are also common.
These corals are absolutely beautiful, but with their long flowing tentacles they are often mistaken for anemones. In some instances they have the exact same color and can look like a miniature Magnificent Sea Anemone Heteractis Magnifica when they are mature. They also have curiously similar characteristics as several Euphyllia species, especially when young and still connected to rock work.
In the wild, H. actiniformis normally sits on soft, flat substrates, but they have also been found on rubble. They have the ability to "unbury" themselves in the substrate and right themselves if they are overturned. They do this by filling their tissue with large amounts of water, thus becoming more buoyant. They can then use the water current as their mode of transportation. In the aquarium them may also move about the substrate and so may need to be "boxed in" with rock formations.
The Long Tentacle Plate Coral is somewhat more delicate than the Fungia genus, and so is somewhat harder to care for. Low to moderate water movement is needed and it requires medium to strong light. This coral sends out sweeper tentacles and so should be given a good 6 inches of clearance all around.
H. actiniformis are readily available, so beginners often pick them up, although they generally should be kept by a bit more experienced reef keeper. Usually these corals do fine for some time but then can suddenly die, often for no apparent reason. Once cause of their demise is aquarists placing them on the rock work. This results in falls and/or causes tissue laceration, infection, and death. Another problem is with not feeding them enough, they must be fed daily to thrive in the aquarium.
Scientific name
Family: Fungiidae
Species: Heliofungia actiniformis
Status :
The H. actiniformis is on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species listed as Vulnerable (VU).
Long Tentacle Plate Coral, Disk Coral, Mushroom Coral
Heliofungia actiniformis
The Plate Coral, or Long Tentacle Plate Coral, has the largest polyps of all the corals!
Here is a brief .. For more information click on the primary name ..
Difficulty of Care :
Heliofungia Coral Care: The H. actiniformis can be moderate to care for. They need to have proper placement, proper lighting, and regular daily feeding. They are also much more sensitive to other corals stinging them and are more prone to tissue laceration and infection than the similar Fungia genus.
Foods / Feeding :
Heliofungia Coral Feeding: The Heliofungia corals, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive many of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.
In captivity, these corals need to be fed at least daily, in fact they possibly need to eat even more than the Fungiagenus. They can be fed shredded meat, including mysis. With larger foods, try to feed the whole organism to the coral. For instance if you are feeding it a silverside, chop it up but feed it all, so your Plate Coral will get the fullest nutritious benefit from the meal.
Aquarium Care :
Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.
The following water supplements are suggested for Heliofungia species:
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Calcium: 400 to 450 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
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Alkalinity: 3.5 TO 4 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
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Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
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Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
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Strontium: 8 - 10
Aquarium Parameters :
A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Plate Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production. Have an open area of soft substrate or a rubble bottom for this animal.
Provide a low to moderate water movement and medium to strong light. Do not place them on the rock work as this can result in falls and/or cause tissue laceration, infection, and death. This coral can be semi-aggressive. It sends out long sweeper tentacles and so should be given a good 6 inches of clearance all around.
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Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallons (190 L) or larger
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Marine Lighting: Moderate to high
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Temperature: 74° - 83° F (23° - 28° C)
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Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.026
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Water Movement: Low to moderate
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Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium
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Sex - Sexual differences
Unknown.
Tongue Coral, Feather Coral, Plate Coral, Mole Coral
Polyphyllia talpina
Though it is a coral, the appearance of the Slipper Coral looks like warm fuzzy slippers!
The Slipper Coral Polyphillia talpina, true to its name, has an elongated shape with shaggy, mop-like tentacles. All the corals in thePolyphyllia genus have equally descriptive names due to their intriguing appearance. Common names for the Polyphyllia spp. include Slipper Coral, Tongue Coral, Sea Mole, Feather Coral, Mole Coral, and Plate Coral. They will also appear in the trade with various combinations of these common names such as Mole Slipper Coral or Hairy Tongue Coral, and so on.
Polyphyllia corals are flat, or arched when viewed from the side, and can form several shapes. The Slipper Coral P. talpina has an elongated or tongue shape. They have many mouths across their surface (called polystomatous) with the larger mouths sometimes aligned with the central axis or furrow. The tentacles are usually horn-shaped and about two centimeters (.75 inches) long. The polyps are extended during the day and when fully extended, a carpet of tentacles is all that is visible.
The colors of the Polyphyllia genus are usually brown or gray, sometimes with cream or green. The basal tissue (which means the tissue serving as, or forming a base) can become fluorescent green to teal. Their tentacles are usually brown with white tips, but they sometimes have forked ends.
The Slipper Coral P. talpina can be easy to care for if it has proper substrate placement, proper lighting and water movement, and regular daily feeding. The Polyphyllia genus is the most tolerant as far as lighting goes, and it can handle a little higher lighting than other fungiids. It is quite hardy.
These corals have been propagated in captivity and are readily available, yet buyers need to be aware of what they are purchasing. When their polyps are out, the Polyphyllia corals strongly resemble members of the Herpolithagenus such as the Tongue Coral H. limax genus. You can tell the difference between these two genera, because thePolyphyllia spp. lack a distinct central groove (also called an axial furrow). They do have an axial furrow but their many tentacles cover the surface and hide it.
When researching these corals, you will find the same common names are used for the Herpolitha spp. corals. The scientific name Polyphyllia is also commonly spelled incorrectly as "Polyhillia", with an 'i' after the 'h' rather than a 'y'.
Scientific name Family: Fungiidae
Species: Polyphyllia talpina
Status The following species from this genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species:
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Polyphyllia talpina: Least Concern (LC)
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Polyphyllia novaehiberniae: Near Threatened (NT)
Difficulty of Care :
Polyphyllia Coral Care: The Slipper Coral P. talpina can be easy to care for if it has have proper substrate placement, proper lighting and water movement, and regular daily feeding. The Polyphyllia genus is the most tolerant as far as lighting goes, and it can handle a little higher lighting than other fungiids. They are quite hardy.
Fungiids usually do fine for some time but then can suddenly die, often for no apparent reason. Once cause of their demise is aquarists placing them on the rock work. This results in falls and/or causes tissue laceration, infection, and death. Another problem is with not feeding them enough, they must be fed daily to thrive in the aquarium.
Foods / Feeding :
Polyphyllia Coral Feeding: The Polyphyllia corals, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive many of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.
With mouths all over the surface and a carpet of tentacles to catch prey, the Slipper Coral will snare brine shrimp and other food easily. In captivity, these corals need to be fed at least daily. They also need to be fed more often under lower lighting conditions.
Fungiids form mucous nets, at that time that you can put small amounts of shredded meat on this net. They can be fed shredded meat, as well as mysis and brine shrimp. With larger foods, try to feed the whole organism to the coral. For instance if you are feeding it a silverside, chop it up but feed it all, so your Slipper Coral will get the fullest nutritional benefit from the meal.
Aquarium Care :
Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.
The following water supplements are suggested for Polyphyllia species:
-
Calcium: 400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
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Alkalinity: 3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
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Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
-
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
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Strontium: 8 - 10
Aquarium Parameters :
A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Slipper Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production. Have an open area of soft substrate or a rubble bottom for this animal, and do not put it on rock work..
The Slipper Coral is easily kept in the home aquarium as long as it is placed on a soft or rubble-covered bottom, given a slow and gentle current, and bright light.Polyphyllia spp. seem to adapt to lower light levels, making them the most tolerant of all the fungiids.
The Slipper Coral P. talpina does not attach to a surface (rock, substrate, etc.). It is quite capable of movement and may move itself around a tank to find its own favorable position (as will other fungiids). Though peaceful with other Fungiids, this coral can be semi-aggressive toward other corals. It needs to be placed where it cannot 'walk' up to corals that are not in the Fungiidae family
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Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallons (190 L) or larger
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Marine Lighting: Moderate to high, Polyphyllia spp. do contain zooxanthellae
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Temperature: 73° - 81° F (23° - 27° C)
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Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.026
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Water Movement: Low to moderate, but not strong enough to remove the feeding mucous net.
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Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium
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Sex - Sexual differences : Unknown
Slipper Coral, Mole Coral, Hedgehog Coral
Striate Boomerang Coral
Herpolitha limax
The Tongue Coral not only resembles a tongue, but is the largest of the solitary corals!
The Tongue Coral Herpolitha limax has a most descriptive common name, because it looks like an extended tongue. These corals are flat, or arched when viewed from the side, and can form several shapes. They can be shaped like a tongue, a boomerang, or a T, X, or Y shape. TheHerpolitha genus are the largest of all the solitary corals, and can reach 39" (1 m) or more in the wild. Some other common names they are known by are Slipper Coral, Mole Coral, Hedgehog Coral, and Striate Boomerang Coral.
The Tongue Coral has a prominent central groove down the middle, called an axial furrow. There are mouths (called polystomatous) along this furrow and several more mouths across the surface. Their tentacles, more like inflated tissue than a tentacles, are short and widely spaced between broad septal ridges that radiate out from the furrow. Feeder tentacles come out at night. Their colors are predominately brown, cream, or shades of green. Occasionally the tentacles can contrast slightly from the rest of the coral, usually being white or green.
The Tongue Coral is similar in appearance to the Slipper Coral Polyphyllia talpina, but there are some distinct differences. On the Polyphyllia corals the central furrow is only a small indentation and they have many tentacles, giving them a shaggy or mop-like appearance.
The Tongue Coral is quite hardy, more so than many of the other solitary corals. It can be easy to care for if it has the proper substrate and placement, proper lighting and water movement, and regular daily feeding. Provide it with an adequate sized aquarium, as Herpolitha spp. can get quite large. This coral also has a net-like mucus secretion (with stinging nematocysts) that it uses to feed and for protection. Fortunately its mucus is not as powerful, or as dangerous to nearby corals, as other Fungiids. A curiously different, yet attractive animal for a dedicated reef keeper.
Scientific name Family: Fungiidae
Species: Herpolitha limax
Status The following species from this genus are on the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species:
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Herpolitha limax: Least Concern (LC)
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Herpolitha weberi: Least Concern (LC)
Difficulty of Care :
Herpolitha Coral Care: The Tongue Coral H. limax can be easy to care for if it has the proper substrate and placement, proper lighting and water movement, and regular daily feeding. The Herpolitha genus is quite hardy, more so than many of the other solitary corals.
Fungiids usually do fine for some time but then can suddenly die, often for no apparent reason. Once cause of their demise is aquarists placing them on the rock work. This results in falls and/or causes tissue laceration, infection, and death. Another problem is with not feeding them enough, they must be fed daily to thrive in the aquarium.
Foods / Feeding :
Herpolitha Coral Feeding: The Herpolitha corals, like other large polyp stony (LPS) corals, have developed several feeding strategies. Through a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive many of their nutrients. They also capture planktonic organisms, food particles from the water column, and can absorb dissolved organic matter.
In captivity, the Tongue Coral needs to be fed at least daily. They also need to be fed more often under lower lighting conditions. Fungiids form mucous nets, at that time that you can put small amounts of shredded meat on this net. They can be fed shredded meat, as well as mysis and brine shrimp. With larger foods, try to feed the whole organism to the coral. For instance if you are feeding it a silverside, chop it up but feed it all, so your Tongue Coral will get the fullest nutritional benefit from the meal.
Aquarium Care :
Typical water changes of 20% a month, 10% biweekly, or 5% weekly are needed. It has been noted that 5% weekly water changes replenish many of the needed additives and it is ultimately cheaper than purchasing additives for the water. With higher concentrations of coral with calcareous skeletons though, there may be a need put in additional additives to maintain proper levels for good growth.
The following water supplements are suggested for Herpolitha species:
-
Calcium: 400 to 430 ppm. If a large poly stony (LPS) coral does not have enough calcium, it will not grow. (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient)
-
Alkalinity: 3.5 MEQ/L (8 to 11 dKh, 10 is recommended)
-
Phosphates: 0, zero. Phosphates are the worst of all and all corals hate them.
-
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350. Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.
-
Strontium: 8 - 10
Aquarium Parameters :
A well-feed live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Tongue Coral , along with some fish for organic matter production. Have an open area of soft substrate or a rubble bottom for this animal, and do not put it on rock work.
The Tongue Coral is easily kept in the home aquarium as long as it is placed on a soft or rubble-covered bottom, given a slow and gentle current, and bright light. The Tongue Coral H. limax does not attach to a surface (rock, substrate, etc.). It is quite capable of movement and may move itself around a tank to find its own favorable position (as will other fungiids). Though peaceful with other Fungiids, this coral can be semi-aggressive toward other corals. It needs to be placed where it cannot 'walk' up to corals that are not in the Fungiidae family
-
Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallons (190 L) or larger
-
Marine Lighting: Moderate to high, Herpolitha spp. do contain zooxanthellae
-
Temperature: 74° - 83° F (23° - 28° C)
-
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.026
-
Water Movement: Low to moderate, but not strong enough to remove the feeding mucous net.
-
Water Region: Bottom of the aquarium
-
Sex - Sexual differences Unknown
