Large Red Cynarina Coral – A Premium Centrepiece for Advanced Reef Aquascapes
Bring the drama of deep-water reefs into your aquarium with this large Red Cynarina Coral (Cynarina lacrymalis). Known for its intensely saturated red colour and oversized fleshy structure, this LPS coral delivers maximum visual impact with minimal care complexity. The coral’s smooth folds and translucent texture shimmer under actinic and blue-spectrum LEDs, making it a centrepiece in both daylight and moonlight settings.
A solitary coral by nature, the Red Cynarina expands generously in stable reef environments. It prefers a soft sandbed or flat rock base in the lower regions of the tank, where its delicate tissue can remain undisturbed by excessive flow. Despite its size and presence, it is a hardy coral, making it accessible to experienced hobbyists and well-prepared beginners alike.
Lighting Requirements:
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Thrives under low to moderate lighting (PAR 75–125)
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Enhances red tones dramatically under actinic/blue LED lighting
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Gradual acclimatisation advised if transitioning from lower light conditions
Water Flow:
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Requires low and indirect flow
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Strong or turbulent flow can cause tissue retraction or damage
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Ideal placement is away from powerheads or direct outlets
Aquarium Compatibility:
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Best suited for medium to large reef systems
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Semi-aggressive – allow at least 10–15 cm spacing from neighbouring corals
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Compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates
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Thrives in systems with consistent temperature and alkalinity control
Feeding Guidelines:
While the coral photosynthesises with help from its symbiotic zooxanthellae, supplemental feeding can enhance colour and growth.
Feed 1–2 times weekly with:
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Mysis shrimp
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Enriched brine shrimp
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Finely chopped seafood or coral blends
Best offered during low-light periods when feeding tentacles are visible.
Why Choose the Large Red Cynarina Coral?
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Impressive Size and Colour: Ideal for aquascaping impact
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Resilient Yet Rewarding: Hardy under stable conditions, stunning under the right light
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Natural Movement: Gentle expansion mimics the flow of oceanic soft corals
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Perfect for Feature Placement: Makes an ideal centrepiece coral
FAQs:
Q: How large can a Red Cynarina grow?
A: Large specimens like this can reach 15–18 cm in diameter when fully expanded.
Q: Is it suitable for mixed coral tanks?
A: Yes, but ensure enough space to prevent stinging from its sweeper tentacles.
Q: What are the best tank parameters for success?
A: Maintain temperature at 24–27°C, salinity at 1.025, pH between 8.1–8.4, and dKH of 8–12.
Q: Do I need to feed it regularly?
A: Supplemental feeding 1–2 times per week is ideal for optimal health and vibrancy.