WYSIWYG Chalice Coral – Echinophyllia spp.

Chalice Coral Overview:

The Chalice Coral (Echinophyllia spp.) is a captivating LPS (Large Polyp Stony) coral, celebrated for its vivid coloration and unique growth patterns. Its encrusting nature allows it to form expansive, plate-like structures, adding depth and visual interest to your reef aquarium.

Lighting Needs:

Chalice Corals flourish under low to moderate lighting conditions, with a PAR range of 50–100. Suitable lighting options include LED, T5, or hybrid systems. Gradual acclimation to lighting changes is recommended to prevent stress or bleaching.

Water Flow Requirements:

Moderate, indirect water flow is ideal. This ensures the coral’s surface remains free from debris, mimicking natural reef conditions. Avoid direct, high-intensity currents, which can cause tissue damage or retraction.

Aquarium Compatibility:

While Chalice Corals are generally peaceful, they possess sweeper tentacles that can extend and sting nearby corals. Ensure a minimum distance of 3 inches from other corals to prevent potential aggression.

Feeding & Nutrition:

Primarily photosynthetic, Chalice Corals benefit from supplemental feeding 1–2 times per week. Suitable foods include mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and specialised coral foods. Target feeding during polyp extension periods enhances growth and vitality.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22–26°C

• Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

• Nitrate: 5–10 ppm

• Phosphate: 0.05–0.1 ppm

Features:

• Scientific Name: Echinophyllia spp.

• Common Name: Chalice Coral

• Type: Large Polyp Stony (LPS) Coral

• Origin: Indo-Pacific

• Colouration: Vivid hues with unique patterns

• Placement: Bottom to middle regions of the aquarium

• Growth Form: Encrusting, plate-like structures

• Behaviour: Semi-aggressive; requires spacing from other corals

Why Choose the Chalice Coral:

• Enhanced Visual Appeal: Its vibrant colours and intricate patterns provide a striking visual contrast, enhancing the overall beauty of your reef tank.

• Unique Growth Patterns: The encrusting nature adds depth and dimension to your aquarium landscape.

• Manageable Care Level: With low to moderate lighting and flow requirements, it’s suitable for aquarists with some experience.

• Compatibility: Can be integrated into mixed coral setups when proper spacing is maintained.

FAQs:

Q: Is this coral suitable for beginners?
A: While it has moderate care requirements, with proper research and maintenance, dedicated beginners can successfully keep this coral.

Q: Can I place it near other corals?
A: Due to its semi-aggressive nature, ensure at least 3 inches of space from other corals to prevent potential stinging.

Q: What lighting is best for this coral?
A: Low to moderate lighting (PAR 50–100) using LED, T5, or hybrid systems is ideal. Gradual acclimation to lighting changes is recommended.

Q: How often should I feed it?
A: While it obtains nutrients through photosynthesis, supplemental feeding 1–2 times per week with appropriate coral foods enhances growth and colouration.