Gold & Red Chalice Fragment

Chalice corals are a diverse and popular group of Large Polyp Stony (LPS) corals. They are highly prized by reef aquarists for their unique growth forms, which are typically either encrusting or plating, and their vast array of possible color combinations. These corals can add a significant splash of color and texture to the lower regions of a reef tank, creating visual interest with their unusual shapes.

In appearance, Chalice corals often encrust over surfaces before growing out into a thin, plate-like structure. The surface is dotted with raised oral discs, or "eyes," which can be a different color from the main coral body, leading to many striking and sought-after patterns. The coloration of Chalice species can include deep reds, greens, oranges, pinks, and purples, often with contrasting colors between the base tissue and the polyp mouths.

A dedicated care routine is necessary for a Chalice coral to thrive. It requires low to moderate lighting, ideally in the 75-150 PAR range, so placement on the sandbed or in the lower third of the tank is recommended. Water flow should be low to moderate, enough to prevent detritus from settling but not strong enough to blast the coral's delicate tissue. While photosynthetic, they benefit from weekly target feeding of small meaty foods like mysis shrimp or specialized coral formulas. Maintain stable water parameters, including Calcium between 400-450 ppm, Alkalinity at 8-12 dKH, and Magnesium between 1300-1450 ppm. Be aware that Chalice corals are highly aggressive; they can extend long sweeper tentacles at night that will sting and damage nearby corals, so provide at least 4-6 inches of space from any neighbors. A slow and steady acclimation process is important.

For the hobbyist with an established reef tank, a Chalice coral can be a very rewarding species. Its distinctive appearance and potential for vibrant coloration make it a compelling addition, provided its space and care requirements are met. It serves as a great example of the unique diversity found within LPS corals.

This is a What-You-See-Is-What-You-Get (WYSIWYG) item. The coral pictured is the exact specimen you will receive.

We take livestock seriously. That's why we don't sell anything we wouldn't be comfortable putting in our own tank.

As we are direct from source, we import and sell direct to the public. This means you can buy with confidence knowing EMA prides itself on excellent handling and conditioning protocols.

Fish

All our fish held in a quarantine system for a minimum of 3 weeks. During this time, regular water changes are performed, and twice daily (or sometimes more) feedings are performed.

Copper is dosed and checked twice a day for ich and velvet.

During this treatment fish are given formalin baths for brooklynella and a minimum of 3 praziquantel doses is performed for flukes.

Coral

Our coral is quarantined for a minimum of 3 weeks, just like fish. During this time, regular water changes are performed, water testing done, and once a month a Fauna Marin ICP Total is performed.

Corals are inspected for pests/general health and are provided with a pest dip once a week for at least 3 weeks.

If we see signs of pests, the quarantine period is extended and/or additional dips are performed

If coral is bleached/unhealthy, it will remain in quarantine until healthy enough to sell.