Echinopora Lamellosa
Echinopora Lamellosa, or chalice coral, is a plating and whirling stony coral that can develop a deep blue coloration. It can be found surrounding the islands of the Indo-Pacific region, including Figi, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. This stony coral has been maintained within captive reef systems in the United States since 1996. Echinopora Lamellosa is a favorite amongst hobby level aquarium enthusiasts.
Echinopora Lamellosa Feeding And Health
Echinopora Lamellosa does benefit from finely ground meaty foods, but they must have an almost paste-like consistency before being administered. Echinopora Lamellosa relies heavily on the products of their zooxanthellae. This type of stony coral may benefit from the addition of phytoplankton as a food source. While Echinopora itself may consume the phytoplankton, the real benefit is the increased population of rotifers that feed on the phytoplankton. Rotifers make a great meal for a vast array of corals.
Echinopora Lamellosa In Aquariums
The proper acclimation of Echinopora Lamellosa to the aquarium environment is very important, considering the amount of stress the coral goes through before its arrival. Turn aquarium lights off, as the coral will have spent at least the past day in total darkness. Float the bag containing the coral in the new aquarium water, then gradually introduce it to the new aquarium. Corals are very sensitive to pH balances in the water.
Aquarium Lighting For Echinopora Lamellosa
Echinopora Lamellosa requires intense lighting for the overall health and best coloration. Reef experts have found that the lighting intensities offered to the coral directly affected the intensity, or lack thereof, of the coral. If not provided proper lighting, the colors of the Echinopora Lamellosa may fade, or even perish if they do not receive enough energy.
Echinopora Lamellosa Conservation And Preservation
There are many captive grown fragments of the Echinopora Lamellosa that can be found in the United States. Steve Tyree started one of the best and most well kept Echinopora colonies back in 1996, and continues to be one of the nations most knowledgeable people that understand and can successfully grow this type of stony coral in captivity.
Water Circulation Surrounding Echinopora Lamellosa
Many aquarium enthusiasts like to add Echinopora Lamellosa to their aquariums due to its hardy nature. However, water movement in the reef tank is quite possibly one of the most neglected areas of reef keeping. This type of coral can only thrive with proper water circulation.
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