Description
Yuma – Ricordea yuma
Ricordea yuma, commonly known as the Yuma, is a striking and highly sought-after mushroom coral prized for its vivid coloration and textured polyp structure. Native to the Indo-Pacific, this species is characterized by its bubble-like surface and iridescent hues of orange, pink, green, and blue that shimmer under actinic lighting. Each Yuma displays a unique color pattern, often with contrasting oral discs and tentacle rings, making it a collector’s favorite for both mixed reefs and dedicated mushroom gardens.
Lighting: Low to moderate (50–120 PAR); strong blue-spectrum lighting brings out its vibrant fluorescence, while excessive intensity may cause retraction or fading
Flow: Low; prefers gentle, indirect flow to maintain full polyp expansion and prevent detachment
Placement: Bottom to middle of the aquarium on rock or rubble; allow room for expansion and avoid shaded crevices that limit light exposure
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH
Calcium: 400–440 ppm
Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
Nutrients: Moderate to elevated (NO₃ 10–20 ppm, PO₄ 0.05–0.15 ppm); slightly nutrient-rich water enhances growth and color depth
Feeding: Photosynthetic but benefits from fine particulate foods or coral blends such as reef roids and phytoplankton; feed occasionally for improved tissue growth
Aggression: Low; non-stinging but capable of slow encroachment if placed too closely to other corals
Growth Rate: Moderate; reproduces through budding or fission under stable conditions, eventually forming colonies
Care Level: Easy – resilient and well-adapted to a range of environments
Compatibility: Peaceful; ideal for mixed or soft coral systems and pairs beautifully with Discosoma and Rhodactis varieties
