ECC Hollywood Stunner Chalice
Chalice corals are popular in reef aquariums due to their vibrant colors and unique shapes. They belong to several genera, including Echinophyllia, Mycedium, and Oxypora. Proper care is essential for their health and vibrancy.
Care Requirements
Lighting and Water Flow
- Lighting: Prefers low to moderate light (PAR 50-150). As a stony coral adaptable to lower light, they are an excellent choice for shadier parts of the tank where you may want an encrusting coral.
- Water Flow: Gentle to moderate.
Water Conditions
- Temperature: 75-80°F
- Salinity: 1.024 - 1.026
- pH: 8.0 - 8.4
- Alkalinity: 8-9.5 dKH
- Calcium: 400-450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
- Nitrates: 5-15 ppm
- Phosphates: <0.10 ppm
Feeding
Chalice corals are photosynthetic but benefit from weekly supplemental feedings. Recommended foods include:
- Amino Acids
- Powdered foods such as Benepets and Reef Roids
- Phytoplankton and Zooplankton
- Mysis shrimp (supplemental feedings weekly)
Regular target feeding a couple of times a week can enhance growth. It is recommended that you turn off water flow for 10-15 minutes during feeding for best results.
Growth and Placement
Chalice corals grow best on rockwork rather than the sandbed, as they have a flat skeletal structure that allows them to thrive in that environment. For optimal growth, they should be placed in moderate lighting and water flow, with enough space to prevent aggression towards other corals.