Chalice- Rainbow Chameleon

Chalice Corals (Echinophyllia spp.) are known for their vibrant colors and unique patterns, making them a favorite among reef aquarium enthusiasts. Here are the care requirements for Chalice Corals:

Tank Setup

• Tank Size: Chalice Corals can thrive in both small and large tanks. A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for stability.

• Placement: Place Chalice Corals on the substrate or lower to middle areas of the tank. They prefer to be on a stable, flat surface where they can spread out.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature between 75-80°F (24-27°C).

• Salinity: Keep the salinity at 1.024-1.026 specific gravity.

• pH: Maintain a pH level between 8.1 and 8.4.

• Alkalinity: Keep alkalinity between 8-12 dKH.

• Calcium: Maintain calcium levels between 400-450 ppm.

• Magnesium: Keep magnesium levels between 1250-1350 ppm.

• Nitrates and Phosphates: Aim for low nitrate levels (below 5 ppm) and phosphate levels (below 0.03 ppm) to prevent algae growth and maintain coral health.

Lighting

• Moderate to Low Lighting: Chalice Corals thrive under moderate to low lighting conditions. LEDs with adjustable intensity are ideal. Avoid placing them under intense lighting, as it can cause bleaching.

• Light Duration: Provide a 10-12 hour light cycle to mimic natural daylight patterns.

Water Flow

• Moderate to Low Flow: Chalice Corals prefer moderate to low water flow. Too much flow can cause them to retract their polyps, while too little flow can lead to detritus buildup. Adjust powerheads and wavemakers to create a gentle, indirect flow.

Feeding

• Photosynthesis and Feeding: While Chalice Corals derive some of their energy from photosynthesis through their symbiotic zooxanthellae, they also benefit from direct feeding.

• Types of Food: Feed them small meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and coral-specific pellets or powders. Target feeding with a turkey baster or pipette is effective.

• Feeding Frequency: Feed Chalice Corals 2-3 times a week to promote growth and vibrant coloration.

Maintenance

• Water Quality: Regular water changes (10-20% biweekly) help maintain water quality and replenish essential trace elements.

• Testing: Regularly test water parameters to ensure they remain within the optimal range. Adjust as necessary to maintain stability.

• Pest Control: Inspect Chalice Corals for pests such as flatworms or nudibranchs. Use a coral dip treatment if needed to remove pests before introducing new corals to the tank.

Compatibility

• Peaceful Tank Mates: Chalice Corals are generally peaceful and can coexist with other corals and reef-safe fish. However, they have sweeper tentacles that can sting nearby corals, so provide adequate space to prevent aggression.

• Avoid Aggressive Corals: Keep Chalice Corals away from aggressive or fast-growing corals that might overshadow or sting them.

Additional Considerations

• Fragging: Chalice Corals can be propagated through fragging. Use a sharp coral saw to cut the coral into smaller pieces, ensuring each piece has at least one eye (polyp). Allow the frags to heal in a separate area before reintroducing them to the main tank.

• Acclimation: When introducing Chalice Corals to your tank, acclimate them slowly to prevent shock. Use the drip acclimation method to gradually adjust them to the tank's water parameters.

• Observation: Regularly observe the coral for signs of stress or disease. Healthy Chalice Corals will display full, vibrant polyps.

By providing the right conditions, regular feeding, and careful maintenance, Chalice Corals can thrive and add stunning colors to your reef aquarium.