Purple Bubble Coral

Bubble Coral, known scientifically as Plerogyra sinuosa, is a popular Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral that brings a unique texture and sense of movement to a reef aquarium. Its most distinguishing feature is the presence of large, water-filled vesicles that resemble a cluster of grapes or bubbles. These bubbles, which are actually modified polyps, expand during the day to capture light for the symbiotic algae within and retract at night, often revealing the feeding tentacles hidden beneath. This dynamic behavior makes it a fascinating species for many hobbyists to observe.

The appearance of a Bubble Coral is unmistakable. During the day, the skeleton is almost completely hidden by the inflated, fleshy bubbles. While commonly found in shades of tan, cream, or light green, this particular variety exhibits a subtle and attractive purple hue. The size of the bubbles can change depending on lighting, water flow, and time of day, creating an ever-changing landscape in your tank. At night, the bubbles recede, and the coral may extend its sweeper tentacles, which are used for both defense and capturing prey from the water column.

For proper care, Bubble Coral requires low to moderate lighting, ideally in the 50-150 PAR range, as intense light can cause the polyps to retract or even bleach. It prefers low to moderate, indirect water flow; strong currents can prevent the bubbles from inflating fully and may damage the delicate tissue. Ideal placement is in the lower third of the tank or on the sandbed, with ample space around it. This species is aggressive and can extend sweeper tentacles up to several inches long, so keep it at least 6 inches away from other corals. While photosynthetic, it benefits from target feeding once or twice a week with meaty foods like mysis shrimp or other finely chopped seafood. Maintain stable water parameters, with calcium at 400-450 ppm, alkalinity at 8-12 dKH, and magnesium at 1250-1350 ppm. Handle with care during acclimation, and do not expose the inflated bubbles directly to air.

A Bubble Coral is a worthwhile addition for the hobbyist looking to add a distinct and active coral to their collection. Its unusual appearance and relatively straightforward care requirements, provided its needs for lower light and flow are respected, make it a classic choice for LPS-dominated reef tanks.

Please note: This is not a WYSIWYG item. You will receive a coral frag of the same species and similar coloration/quality to what is photographed, but the exact specimen may vary. Each piece is unique and hand-selected for health and color.

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.