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Features
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Mushroom coral, also known as corallimorphs or mushroom anemone, is a very hardy type of coral. It is an easy coral for the beginner reef aquarist to maintain. Mushroom coral comes in a variety of colors and textures. Some common colors are blue, green, purple and red. Some of them have spots and stripes or mottled colors. They can be either smooth, bumpy or fuzzy across the oral disc.
Size
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In their natural habitat, mushroom coral range in size from an inch up to a foot. Those that live in aquariums are usually about three inches in diameter.
Requirements
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Mushroom coral are kept in a marine or saltwater aquarium. They require live rock to attach themselves to, sand substrate and an airstone. Generally, mushroom coral does well in an aquarium with shade or indirect lighting. Metal halide and VHO fluorescent lighting is not necessary. Temperature requirements vary, depending on the specific type of mushroom coral. Some types will require a chiller for the aquarium. They prefer slow water current. Do not place them where the water flow from filtration devices will disturb them. High nitrate levels and other organic compounds are generally tolerated well by this type of coral. Low levels of organic compounds will enhance their colors.
Nutrition
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Most of the nutrition requirements for mushroom coral are provided by zooxanthellae that live within the coral. Zooxanthellae is a photosynthetic algae that provides oxygen, which helps with the removal of wastes. The zooxanthellae also provide the coral with glucose, glycerol and amino acids as a result of photosynthesis. In return, the coral provides the zooxanthellae with shelter and compounds required for photosynthesis.
When the coral becomes stressed, it will sometimes expel the zooxanthellae. This will cause the coral to lose its color and appear bleached. If the zoosxanthellae does not re-establish within the coral, the coral will eventually die.
Other nutritional requirements vary greatly, depending on the type of mushroom coral. Some of them will consume particulates floating in the water and others will eat newly hatched brine shrimp, live black worms or even small fish.
Caution
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Do not place mushroom corals right next to other types of corals. They can become aggressive. Leave some space between the corals in the aquarium.
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About Mushroom Coral
Mushroom coral can add some interesting color and texture to a marine aquarium. It can be kept in an aquarium that houses only coral or with other types of animals. There are many different kinds of mushroom coral, and their specific needs vary somewhat. Be sure to check with the seller on the needs of the coral you purchase.