Chalice Corals

💧Moderate Flow

☀️Moderate Light

⭐Intermediate Difficulty

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.

Classification

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Cnidaria
Class	Anthozoa
Order	Scleractinia
Family	Lobophylliidae, Merulinidae
Genus	Echinophyllia, Mycedium, Oxypora, Pectinia

Chalice corals include multiple species from sever genera and families.

Quick Care Tips

Lighting

Moderate

Low

Moderate

High

Flow

Moderate

Low

Moderate

High

Difficulty

Intermediate

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Although broadly similar, coral care requirements can vary between types of Chalice corals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What corals are considered Chalice?

The term Chalice Coral typically refers to species within the Echinophyllia, Mycedium, and Oxypora genera, but can also include Pectinia, Echinopora, and occasionally others. The taxonomy behind these corals is complex and has changed over time, with many once grouped under the now-defunct Pectiniidae family. Today, 'chalice' is a hobbyist term based more on shared appearance and growth forms than strict genetic relationships.

Where should I place Chalice Coral in my tank?

Chalice Corals generally prefer placement in the lower portion of the tank, where light intensity and water flow are on the lower end of moderate. Most varieties thrive under subdued lighting and may lose color or recede if exposed to too much intensity without acclimation. Gentle, indirect flow helps prevent detritus from settling on their tissue while avoiding irritation. That said, care needs—and ideal placement—can vary by species, so it's important to monitor the coral’s response and adjust lighting or flow as needed.

Are all Chalice Corals aggressive?

Many Chalice Corals can be aggressive, particularly at night when some species extend long sweeper tentacles capable of stinging nearby corals. However, the level of aggression varies between genera and even individual specimens. Careful spacing is important, especially in mixed reefs. Even chalices that don't display obvious sweepers can still pose a risk by encrusting and overgrowing neighboring corals over time.

Marketplace Overview

Current Listings: 457
Lowest Price: $8
Highest Price: $2000
Median Price: $60

Shop over 457 Chalice Corals

Top Sellers

Top Shelf Aquatics 137 Chalice Listings	137 listings
Corals.com 89 Chalice Listings	89 listings
World Wide Corals 39 Chalice Listings	39 listings
Queen City Corals 32 Chalice Listings	32 listings
Reef Exclusive 26 Chalice Listings	26 listings
TRSC Aquatics 19 Chalice Listings	19 listings

How to Choose a Healthy Chalice Coral

Color and Fluorescence:
Chalice Corals are known for stunning color morphs. Look for pieces with bright coloration and no signs of fading or bleaching, which may indicate stress.
Tissue Health:
Avoid frags with receding tissue, exposed skeleton, or melting edges. A healthy chalice should have firm, intact tissue with clear polyp mouths.
Growth Margin:
Healthy chalice frags often show a light-colored ridge around the edge, indicating active growth. This is a positive sign of health and adaptation.
Signs of Healing:
If a Chalice frag has begun to encrust onto the plug or surrounding rock, it's a good indication that it has had time to heal from fragging and is actively growing. This generally means a lower risk of tissue recession and a better chance of successful acclimation to your tank.

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Chalice Corals

Classification

Quick Care Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

What corals are considered Chalice?

Where should I place Chalice Coral in my tank?

Are all Chalice Corals aggressive?

Marketplace Overview

Shop over 457 Chalice Corals

Top Sellers

How to Choose a Healthy Chalice Coral

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What is Meta Reef?