*PLEASE NOTE THIS IS PER HEAD*
Frogspawn coral, belonging to the genus Euphyllia, is a popular and visually striking coral in marine aquariums. It is characterized by its branching structure and large, bulbous polyps that extend from the skeleton, giving the appearance of clusters of "frogspawn" or elongated, inflated sacs. The polyps can come in various colors, including green, pink, and purple, often with contrasting tips.
Care Tips:
-
Lighting: Frogspawn corals prefer moderate to high lighting. They have symbiotic zooxanthellae that require good light for photosynthesis. LED or T5 lighting systems with moderate to high intensity are usually suitable.
-
Water Flow: Moderate water flow is ideal for frogspawn corals. Strong currents can damage their delicate polyps, while too little flow can lead to issues with detritus accumulation and poor gas exchange.
-
Water Conditions: Maintain stable water parameters:
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Specific Gravity: 1.023-1.025
- Calcium: 400-450 ppm
- Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH Regular water changes and a high-quality filtration system are important for maintaining optimal water quality.
-
Feeding: While frogspawn corals are primarily photosynthetic, they can benefit from occasional feeding. Offer small pieces of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or coral pellets 1-2 times a week. This supplemental feeding supports their health and growth.
-
Placement: Place the coral in an area where it has space to expand, away from aggressive corals that might sting it. They do well on the substrate or on a stable rock surface. Ensure they are positioned in a spot with moderate to high lighting and flow, depending on their specific needs and tank conditions.
-
Maintenance: Regularly inspect the coral for signs of stress or disease, such as retracted polyps or discoloration. Keeping the tank clean and monitoring water parameters can help prevent common issues.
With proper care, frogspawn corals can be a vibrant and captivating addition to your reef tank, showcasing their unique, bubble-like polyps and contributing to a colorful and dynamic aquarium environment.