Mushroom Coral
Fungiidae Species
Most think of corals as being firmly anchored in place. This is not true of all mushroom corals, some remain unattached. Others will be sold attached to a flat rock base.
Another feature that sets this group apart is the fact that they sometimes only inhabited by one polyp instead of an entire colony. The polyp or polyps will emerge to filter feed in the nocturnal hours.
Mushroom corals are so named due to the skeleton resembling the fungus of the same name. They even have the latin family name of fungiidae because of this feature. The feeding polyps live in the 'cap' while the 'stalk' sits in the substrate.
Mushroom Coral For Aquariums
In terms of size the mushroom corals are smaller than average. They often grow close to each other in bunches. This is similar to the way that actual mushrooms grow sometimes also.
Most mushroom coral is considered a good beginner variety for people new to keeping reef aquariums. They will not attack other varieties so there is no threat of them damaging adjacent corals.
Varieties Of Mushroom Coral
Colors can vary with specimens found in green, purple, gray, red, blue and brown. Some mushroom coral are also patterned with many colors arranged in tiny dots. Different textures can also be observed ranging from smooth to wavy or fuzzy.
Care Of Fungiidae Corals
These reef creatures do best with medium to strong light. Red and blue colored brain coral prefer the brightest illumination. They like an alkaline pH and water kept between 23 and 26 degrees Celsius.
Some prefer a slow current while others can be kept in a medium strong current. Clean water is a must for all corals and these varieties are no exception.
Trace elements such as iodine should always be kept as an acceptable level. While larger mushroom coral catch food particles from the water there is also photosynthesis that occurs in many species.
Live Mushroom Coral For Sale
Many beginners choose mushroom coral for their simple care requirements and affordable price. Frags are typically $10 or lower with only the rarer varieties costing more than $20.
Should you buy mushroom coral from the listings below you will be shopping from eBay.
