Description
Chalice Coral – Echinophyllia spp. / Oxypora spp.
The Chalice Coral is a collective name for several closely related LPS genera, including Echinophyllia, Oxypora, and Mycedium. Renowned for their vivid, often iridescent coloration and dramatic growth forms, Chalice corals are among the most visually striking additions to reef aquariums. Their surfaces display intricate ridges, eyes, and swirling patterns in colors ranging from neon green and hot pink to rainbow blends. Found on shaded reef slopes and overhangs, these corals thrive under gentle flow and subdued lighting, where their fluorescence and contrast truly come alive.
Lighting: Low to moderate (50–150 PAR); too much light can cause bleaching or loss of color saturation—ideal under blue-spectrum LEDs
Flow: Low to moderate; prefers indirect, laminar flow to prevent tissue abrasion while keeping surfaces clear of debris
Placement: Bottom to mid-level areas with stable rockwork or sand substrate; shaded spots encourage deeper coloration
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH
Calcium: 420–460 ppm
Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
Nutrients: Moderate (NO₃ 5–15 ppm, PO₄ 0.05–0.12 ppm); stable nutrient levels are essential to maintain vibrant coloration
Feeding: Photosynthetic but benefits from regular feeding of fine meaty foods such as rotifers, reef roids, or LPS pellets 2–3 times weekly; target feeding enhances growth and polyp extension
Aggression: High; extends long sweeper tentacles at night capable of stinging nearby corals—maintain 10–15 cm clearance
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate; growth accelerates significantly under stable, nutrient-rich conditions
Care Level: Intermediate – requires stable parameters and careful placement, but thrives long-term in mature reef systems
Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; best housed with other LPS or soft corals at a distance; avoid placement near fast-growing or stinging species such as Euphyllia or Galaxea
