Purple Heliofungia Plate Coral

The Heliofungia plate coral is a unique and active large-polyp stony coral. Often mistaken for an anemone, Heliofungia actiniformis is a solitary, free-living coral with a single large polyp and impressively long tentacles. This particular specimen exhibits a deep purple colouration throughout its tentacles, making it a standout piece on any sandbed. It brings a lot of movement and personality to the lower levels of a reef aquarium.

Unlike most corals, a healthy plate coral has the ability to inflate its tissue and even move itself across the substrate. Its long, flowing tentacles will extend during the day, gently swaying in the current. While they are photosynthetic, they are also active feeders, readily capturing and consuming small food items that drift by. This specimen’s tentacles are a solid purple, sometimes with cream or white tips that are characteristic of the species.

For best results, place your Heliofungia on the sandbed with plenty of open space around it. It requires low to moderate water flow, just enough to keep the tentacles moving without causing them to retract or be damaged. Moderate lighting in the 75-150 PAR range is ideal; too much light can cause it to bleach. While photosynthetic, it benefits from weekly feedings of meaty foods like mysis shrimp or chopped prawn. Be sure to give it a wide berth, as its long sweeper tentacles can sting and damage neighbouring corals. Stable alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium levels will support its skeletal growth.

This is not a WYSIWYG item, so you'll receive a similar specimen pictured.

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.