Details
Mushroom Coral Care Guide
Expert care tips for Rhodactis, Discosoma, and Eclectus mushroom corals in your reef aquarium.
Introduction to Mushroom Corals
Mushroom corals are soft corals known for their vibrant colors, ease of care, and unique textures. Popular genera include Rhodactis, Discosoma, and the rare and highly prized Eclectus mushroom. These corals are ideal for beginners and experienced reef keepers alike.
Ideal Tank Parameters
- Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
- Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
- pH: 8.1–8.4
- Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
- Calcium: 400–450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
- Nitrates: 2–10 ppm
- Phosphates: 0.01–0.05 ppm
Lighting Requirements
Mushroom corals prefer low to moderate lighting. Too much light can cause them to bleach or shrink. Use adjustable LED lighting and place them in shaded or lower areas of the tank if needed.
Water Flow
Low to moderate water flow is ideal. Strong currents can cause mushrooms to detach or close up. Gentle, indirect flow helps keep them clean and healthy.
Placement Tips
Place mushroom corals on live rock or rubble in areas with low light and gentle flow. They can spread quickly, so give them space to grow. Avoid placing them near aggressive corals or stinging LPS species.
Feeding and Nutrition
While mushroom corals get most of their energy from photosynthesis, they benefit from occasional feeding. Offer small amounts of:
- Phytoplankton
- Marine snow
- Coral-specific liquid foods
- Finely chopped meaty foods (optional)
Target feeding once a week can enhance growth and coloration.
Popular Mushroom Coral Types
| Type | Appearance | Care Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhodactis | Textured surface, often fuzzy or bumpy | Easy | Can grow large and form colonies |
| Discosoma | Smooth, flat, wide range of colors | Very Easy | Great for beginners, fast growers |
| Eclectus | Rare, multicolored with intense patterns | Moderate | Highly sought after, slow growing |
Propagation
Mushroom corals can reproduce by splitting or budding. You can also frag them by cutting the cap and placing the pieces on rubble under a mesh. They will attach and regrow over time.
Common Issues
- Bleaching: Caused by excessive light or stress.
- Detachment: Often due to strong flow or poor water quality.
- Melting: A sign of bacterial infection—remove affected tissue and improve tank conditions.
Conclusion
Mushroom corals like Rhodactis, Discosoma, and Eclectus are colorful, hardy, and rewarding additions to any reef tank. With proper placement, lighting, and occasional feeding, they will thrive and multiply, adding vibrant life to your aquarium.
