About Chalice Coral
Chalice encompasses multiple genera of large polyp stony corals that earned their name from their distinctive cup-shaped colonies formed by thin calcium carbonate skeletons.
Originally classified under the Pectiniidae family, recent molecular studies have reclassified these corals across several families: Echinophyllia and Oxypora now belong to Lobophylliidae, while Mycedium has been transferred to Merulinidae. These corals naturally inhabit Indo-Pacific waters, with specimens sourced from Fiji, Australia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Red Sea.
Chalice corals showcase extraordinary diversity in coloration and patterns, often resembling "neon melted crayons" with brilliant hues spanning blue, green, red, purple, orange, and pink combinations. Their flat, plate-like skeletal structures create encrusting bases that develop into convoluted plates and laminate tiers. Individual colonies can reach impressive sizes, with wild specimens growing over 2 feet across, while aquarium specimens commonly achieve 12 inches in diameter.
Growth rates vary significantly by species and skeletal thickness, with thin-skeleton varieties doubling in size every 4 months, while thicker-skeleton species grow approximately ¼ inch monthly.
Chalice Coral Care
To guarantee optimal outcomes for your Chalice coral, please adhere to our husbandry recommendations outlined below. Regular water testing is crucial to maintain parameters within appropriate ranges.
Water Chemistry:
- Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- Salinity: 1.023-1.025
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
- Calcium: 400-450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1200-1350 ppm
- Nitrate: <5 ppm
- Phosphate: <0.03 ppm
Lighting:
- Output: Low to moderate lighting (50-200 PAR depending on species)
- Position: Bottom to middle tank sections, avoiding intense direct lighting
Chalice corals demonstrate remarkable fluorescence and display their most vivid colors under appropriate lighting conditions. Excessive illumination can cause bleaching and color loss, while many species prefer shadier locations similar to their natural deeper-water habitats.
Some deeper-water species thrive with PAR levels as low as 50-100, while others like certain Mycedium varieties can handle moderate intensities up to 200 PAR. Gradual acclimation to lighting conditions is essential for newly acquired specimens.
Water Movement:
Low to moderate indirect water circulation works optimally. Sufficient flow prevents debris accumulation on coral surfaces while avoiding excessive turbulence that can stress polyps and impede feeding behaviors. Avoid direct, one-directional flows that can cause prolonged polyp retraction and tissue damage.
Positioning, Behavior, & Fish Compatibility:
Bottom to middle tank areas are ideal, positioned on rockwork or sand substrate with adequate spacing from other corals. Chalice corals exhibit semi-aggressive to aggressive behavior, possessing long sweeper tentacles that can damage neighboring corals during nighttime feeding.
Their rapid growth rates and territorial nature require generous buffer zones around colonies. They can be placed directly on sand beds provided sand particles don't settle on coral tissue.
Avoid Butterflyfish and Angelfish species, as these are notorious coral polyp nippers. Compatible fish include peaceful reef-safe species appropriate for your tank capacity.
Nutrition:
Chalice corals derive primary sustenance from symbiotic zooxanthellae algae through photosynthesis, supplemented by active nighttime feeding behaviors. While nutritional supplementation isn't mandatory, regular target feeding significantly enhances growth rates and coloration.
They respond excellently to small meaty foods including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, zooplankton, and specialized LPS pellets. Feed during evening hours when polyps naturally extend for optimal food capture. Unlike other LPS corals, Chalice species may require longer periods to consume offered foods due to their feeding mechanism involving mucus secretion.
Discover Our Chalice Coral Collection
At Sanctuary Aquatics we offer an extensive Chalice coral selection featuring some of the hobby's most coveted specimens. These LPS corals display an incredible spectrum of colors and patterns, including popular varieties like Dragonfruit Chalice and Rainbow Chalice.
With appropriate care, Chalice corals become tremendously rewarding reef tank centerpieces, providing stunning fluorescent displays and unique architectural growth patterns. Incorporate these corals with compatible species while respecting their territorial requirements to create an impressive aquarium showcase you'll treasure!
Contact Sanctuary Aquatics Today
At Sanctuary Aquatics, we cultivate our Chalice coral expertise through marine science research and extensive hands-on reef keeping experience. At our facility, we've constructed specialized tank systems that establish ideal low-to-moderate light and gentle flow environments for our extensive Chalice collection, enabling them to flourish and exhibit their most spectacular fluorescent properties.
We remain committed to ensuring your Chalice coral success, so contact us for the assistance and resources necessary to establish a thriving coral system! We operate multiple dedicated tank systems specifically for LPS corals like Chalice varieties, including quarantine and display aquariums that receive careful management to maintain coral health and promote successful development.
Contact our team today to view our Chalice coral inventory and receive personalized guidance for your saltwater aquarium requirements. As always, be sure to explore our complete saltwater coral collection here to discover all available species.
