{"product_id":"purple-bubble-coral","title":"Purple Bubble Coral","description":"\u003cp\u003eBubble 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease 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.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eastern Marine Aquariums","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42248933015607,"sku":"EMA-LPS-20260528-PILG","price":135.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1849\/1739\/files\/92639e3e-2bf0-4f90-af03-87a5b4fec359-_MG_3865.png?v=1779995385","url":"https:\/\/easternmarineaquariums.co.nz\/products\/purple-bubble-coral","provider":"EasternMarine Aquariums","version":"1.0","type":"link"}