Blue-Green Discosoma Mushroom (Discosoma spp.) – Description & Care
The Blue-Green Discosoma Mushroom is a vibrant, highly sought-after variety of mushroom coral from the Discosoma genus. Known for its fluorescent blue to green coloration, this mushroom adds striking color to reef tanks, especially under actinic or blue lighting. The tentacles of this mushroom coral are short, broad, and smooth, giving it a rounded appearance. As a relatively hardy coral, it is suitable for both beginner and advanced reef tank keepers.
Care Requirements:
1. Lighting
- Moderate to Low (PAR 30-100)
- Prefers moderate to low lighting; it can tolerate a variety of lighting conditions but does best under blue or actinic spectrum lights.
- Too much light can cause stress or bleaching, while too little light can result in poor coloration and slow growth.
2. Flow
- Low to Moderate Flow
- Thrives in gentle, slow-moving water.
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Avoid strong direct flow, which can cause the mushroom to retract or become stressed.
- Moderate indirect flow is ideal to help keep detritus from settling on the mushroom.
3. Placement
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Lower to mid-tank areas, depending on lighting and flow conditions.
- It can be placed on the substrate or on rocks, but ensure it is in a stable, shaded spot with enough space to spread.
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Avoid areas with heavy flow or high light intensity.
4. Water Parameters
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Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C)
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Salinity: 1.025 SG (35 ppt)
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pH: 8.1-8.4
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Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
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Calcium: 400-450 ppm
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Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
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Nitrates: 5-15 ppm
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Phosphates: 0.01-0.05 ppm
5. Feeding
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Photosynthetic but can benefit from occasional supplemental feeding.
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Target feed with micro-particles, such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or coral foods like Reef Roids.
- Mushrooms will absorb nutrients from the water, so feeding isn't always necessary but can enhance growth.
6. Tank Mates & Compatibility
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Peaceful and non-aggressive toward other corals, making it great for a community reef tank.
- Can be placed near other soft corals, including other Discosoma mushrooms, Zoanthids, or Leathers, without issue.
- Best to keep it away from LPS or SPS corals, which may compete for space and light.
- Generally safe with reef-safe fish and inverts.
7. Special Considerations
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Expands and contracts throughout the day, and may expand more at night when less light is present.
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Can reproduce by budding, forming new mushrooms around the base.
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Dip before placing in your tank to prevent pests like Aiptasia or flatworms.
- Monitor for browning, as it could indicate too much light or poor water conditions.
This coral is great for low-maintenance tanks and adds a pop of color without requiring a lot of attention.
