Starfire Chalice Fragment

Chalice corals are a diverse and popular group of Large Polyp Stony (LPS) corals, appreciated by reef hobbyists for their unique growth forms and intense coloration. These corals typically grow in a plating or encrusting manner, creating interesting ledges and shapes on the rockwork. A Chalice coral can serve as a centerpiece or add a significant splash of color to the lower regions of a well-maintained reef aquarium.

The appearance of Chalice corals can be quite variable, but they are most known for their thin, plate-like structure and raised corallites, often referred to as "eyes". The coloration is what truly sets them apart, with the tissue between the eyes often being a different color than the eyes themselves. This contrast gives them a speckled or patterned look. Common colors include deep reds, greens, oranges, and purples, often with brightly colored oral discs in shades of green, yellow, or orange.

Proper care is essential for a Chalice coral to thrive. It prefers low to moderate lighting conditions, typically in the 75-150 PAR range, as intense light can cause tissue bleaching. Water flow should be moderate and indirect, enough to keep the coral's surface clean of detritus without blasting the tissue directly. Ideal placement is on the rockwork in the lower to middle third of the aquarium. Chalice corals are aggressive and possess long sweeper tentacles that they extend at night; provide at least 4-6 inches of space from all other corals. While photosynthetic, they benefit from weekly target feeding of meaty foods like mysis shrimp or specialized LPS pellets. Maintain stable water parameters with calcium between 400-450 ppm, alkalinity at 8-12 dKH, and magnesium at 1250-1350 ppm. Slow drip acclimation is recommended upon arrival.

For the hobbyist able to provide for its needs, a Chalice coral is a very rewarding species. Its distinctive plating growth adds architectural diversity to the aquascape, and its rich coloration provides a focal point in the reef. It is a classic LPS coral that remains a favorite for good reason, offering a unique combination of color and texture.

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.