Feeding Brain Coral
The brain coral is a carnivorous coral, so feeding brain coral will be part of maintaining a healthy and thriving coral specimen. Feeding brain coral is done almost exclusively at night, or when the lights in a home tank are darkened. Feeding brain coral at night is actually a fascinating process; as the brain coral appears to be turned inside out when fully open.
Feeding Brain Coral Cycle
When the room is sufficiently darkened, the brain coral begins to open and will fully extend a multitude of short, clear tentacles that surround its mouth(s), which is how the coral snags and traps food particles. It is possible that your brain coral may extend its tentacles during daylight hours, but this is less common and usually is triggered by feeding brain coral.
Feeding Brain Coral Specific Food
When it comes to the specific foods involved in feeding brain coral, there are many options available. Once the coral is completely open, it will generally accept a wide variety of food. Popular choices for feeding brain coral include minced pieces of snails, varied species of shrimp (such as my sis shrimp), acellular marine invertebrates, fish flesh, crustaceans, shellfish, and thawed frozen food.
Feeding Brain Coral Process
The process of feeding brain coral is relatively easy- simply place the specimens directly on the corals extended tentacles. In addition to feeding brain coral actual specimens, dietary supplements such as calcium, strontium and other trace elements should be added to the aquarium water. These will help ensure your brain coral remains in optimal health.
Regularity Of Feeding Brain Coral
There are different opinions when it comes to how often you should be feeding brain coral. Because the brain coral also hosts symbiotic algae in its tissues, it does not require supplemental feedings to ensure its survival. However, feeding brain coral regularly will benefit the corals overall health and growth. This method of feeding brain coral is sometimes referred to as spot feeding. Some aquarists attest to feeding brain coral twice per week, while others claim their habit of feeding brain coral is as little as twice per month.
Customized Patterns Of Feeding Brain Coral
It is always best to research your specific brain coral species to learn about feeding brain coral and any specific dietary needs the coral may require. Generally speaking, you can plan on feeding brain coral once or twice a week, then asses how the coral is progressing. Increase or decrease feeding brain coral from there accordingly. It is important to remember that feeding brain coral too often or not enough can lead to health problems.
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