top photo by Robert Pacheco,
bottom photo by Leonard Ho
|
Common names: open brain coral, lobed brain coral Natural origin: Indo-Pacific Sensitivity (Level 1 to 2): Sensitivity depends somewhat on species, but most are quite tolerant and forgiving when healthy and well fed. Feeding: These
corals have strong prey capture ability. They typically have much
larger polyp mouths and can take larger food than can the Blastomussa/Micromussa/Acanthastrea
species of the same family. They appreciate mysid shrimp and
similar sized meaty sea foods. They should be fed at night since this is
often the only time they will extend their feeder tentacles. Lighting (Level 5 to 8):
They can adapt to a range of lighting conditions but tend to prefer
more intense light. As always, to prevent bleaching, be careful to
properly acclimate the coral to new lighting conditions. Water flow: Moderate water flow is preferred. Placement:
These corals are not aggressive. Even so, they can expand quite a
bit and so need plenty of room. Please place them safely away
from aggressive corals. General:
Feeding tentacles are usually relatively small and only come out at
night. Care should be taken to make sure the coral gets enough food.
Slow tissue recession could be a sign of starvation. Regular night-time
target feeding can help.
|