Bubble Coral
Some of the most interesting types of coral in the world are bubble coral. They are quite popular in home reefs due to their strange, unique appearance and can be quite impressive under ideal conditions. Bubble coral generally originate in the Tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans. The type of lighting provided to them determines the shade of the coral.
Characteristics Of Bubble Coral
Bubble coral is composed of fleshy tissue residing in a protective hard skeleton, made from calcium deposits that the tissues, or polyps, secrete. The walls of this skeleton are usually very sharp. This type of coral gets its name from its bulbous tentacles that are used to absorb light needed for photosynthesis. Bubble coral may be light green, tan, gray or white.
Bubble Coral Lighting
Aquarium enthusiasts love bubble coral because of their unique look. These corals will need light according to the lighting in their origin. Many specimens from the Red Sea are found in shallow, well-lit waters. These may be placed in brighter lighting after acclimation. However, bubble coral found in other areas are often found in shaded ledges or in turbid waters, and require less lighting.
Aquarium Placement
At night, bubble coral extend stinging tentacles, called sweeper tentacles, to keep other corals from growing too close. This behavior is similar to many types of herd corals. Unfortunately in an aquarium setting, neighboring corals may be accidentally stung if placed too close in the tank. If damaged or dying tissue is noticed on bubble coral, you may need to move them further apart.
Bubble Coral Feeding And Care
Bubble coral is photosynthetic, but seem to benefit more than many LPS corals from occasional direct feeding of shrimp or other meaty foods. Feeding up to once a week will result in faster growth. Calcium levels in the water is important for skeletal development. They prefer low to moderate water current for optimum health.
Bubble Coral Overview
Bubble coral are an aquarium enthusiast favorite for their unique shape and moderate hardiness, as well as relative ease in care in a captive tank. The bubble coral is native to the Indo Pacific region, including waters surrounding Australia, the Indian Ocean and to the Red Sea. It is quite a popular with marine aquarium enthusiasts because of its interesting look and wide array of colors and interesting textures.
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