Chalice Coral Available Listings and Overview

In the reef keeping hobby, the name Chalice Coral refers to a popular group of LPS corals spanning multiple families and genera, rather than a single species or genus as is more typical. For example, corals from the Lobophylliidae family—such as Echinophyllia and Mycedium—as well as those from the Merulinidae family—like Pectinia—are commonly sold as Chalice Corals. Though their scientific classifications vary, these corals share similar visual traits, growth patterns, and broadly comparable care requirements. Chalice corals are known for their wide variation of vibrant, fluorescent color patterns and often grow by encrusting rock surfaces. With the right placement, they may also develop vertical ridges or plate-like structures that give them their characteristic chalice shape. Their vivid appearance is often accentuated by textured ridges, prominent mouths, or contrasting eyes. While care can differ slightly by species, Chalice corals are generally well suited to intermediate reef keepers. They thrive in stable water conditions with moderate flow and moderate lighting.