Open Brain Coral

Open Brain Corals, often called Trachyphyllia or Wellsophyllia, are a favourite among many reef keepers for their classic LPS appearance and relatively straightforward care. These are classic large polyp stony corals that bring a vibrant, fleshy presence to the aquarium. This piece measures approximately 7cm. Their prominent, wavy folds and rich, sometimes iridescent, colours make them a focal point in any reef. They are typically found in protected, turbid waters on natural reefs. Occasionally, Trachyphyllia will split into two or more heads, increasing their size in the aquarium. This process is fascinating to observe. Open Brain Corals appreciate moderate, indirect flow to keep their tissues clean without causing recession. They thrive under moderate lighting, typically 75-150 PAR, though they can adapt to slightly higher or lower intensities. Placing them directly on the sand bed or a flat, stable rock in the lower to mid-level of the aquarium allows them to fully extend their fleshy polyps. While they host zooxanthellae for their primary nutrition, target feeding with meaty foods like mysis shrimp or copepods a few times a week will promote faster growth and better health. Maintain stable water parameters: calcium 400-440 ppm, alkalinity 8-10 dKH, and magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Open Brain Corals are not overly aggressive but do have sweeper tentacles at night, so give them enough room to avoid touching neighbouring corals. When introducing them, a slow drip acclimation over an hour or two is best. Open Brain Corals are a great choice for aquarists looking to add a substantial, colourful, and elegant coral to their display. Their unique shape and often dynamic colouration make them a rewarding addition to a mature reef system.

This is a WYSIWYG item, so you'll receive the exact specimen pictured.

Please note that colours can look slightly different in person than in photos, depending on your lighting and screen, and the size given is an approximate guide measured at the time of listing.

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.