Green Marble Calypso Chalice Coral
(Acanthastrea bowerbanki)
Echinophyllia corals are found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Red Sea. They typically inhabit shallow reef environments. Like other reef-building corals, Echinophyllia corals have a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae algae. These algae live within the coral's tissues and provide them with nutrients through photosynthesis. However, Echinophyllia corals also have a higher dependency on capturing food particles from the water column compared to some other coral species. Echinophyllia corals are generally considered to be sensitive to elevated copper levels. It's important to avoid exposing them to copper, as it can be detrimental to their health. Echinophyllia corals are considered moderately to slightly challenging to care for. They require stable water conditions, appropriate lighting (moderate to high), and moderate water flow. Additionally, they can benefit from regular feeding of small meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp or brine shrimp, to supplement their nutrition. Echinophyllia corals have a distinctive appearance with thick, fleshy tissue and prominent corallite walls. The corallites often have a textured or bumpy surface, giving them a unique and interesting texture. Echinophyllia corals are known for their ability to develop vibrant and intense colors under the right conditions, making them highly sought after by coral enthusiasts. They can exhibit different growth forms, including encrusting, tabling, and more massive formations. Echinophyllia corals can also display intricate patterns and color morphs, adding visual interest to the aquarium. When keeping Echinophyllia corals, it's important to provide them with stable water parameters, appropriate lighting, and regular feeding. Maintaining good water quality, including stable temperature, salinity, and nutrient levels, is crucial for their well-being. It's also recommended to research and select Echinophyllia species and varieties that are suitable for your specific aquarium setup and care capabilities. Corals will benefit from the addition of Calcium, Strontium, Iodine, Magnesium and Trace Elements.
Echinophyllia Corals are commonly seen in the aquarium trade. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, ranging from solid colors to intricate combinations of contrasting hues. Echinophyllia Coral colonies will vary greatly in size and formation.
Water conditions: Salinity 1.023 - 1.025 Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Hardness 8 - 12 dKH
- Care: Moderate
- Behavior: Social
- Diet: Frozen Food Live Food
- Habitat: Reef
- Light: Medium