Blue tip elegance coral

Elegance coral (Catalaphyllia jardinei) is a beautiful and relatively hardy LPS (large polyp stony) coral, but it requires specific care to thrive. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: 30 gallons or more (larger is better for stability).

• Water Flow: Moderate; too much flow can stress the coral and prevent full polyp extension.

• Lighting: Moderate to high; prefers indirect lighting to avoid bleaching.

2. Water Parameters

• Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)

• Salinity: 1.025-1.026 specific gravity

• pH: 8.1-8.4

• Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH

• Calcium: 400-450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm

• Nitrates: <10 ppm (but not zero)

• Phosphates: <0.03 ppm

3. Placement

• Best placed on the sandy substrate to prevent damage to its delicate tissue. Avoid placing it on rocks where its soft base could be injured.

• Keep it away from other corals because it has long, sweeper tentacles that can sting neighbors.

4. Feeding

• While it is photosynthetic, feeding boosts growth and health.

• Offer meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or small pieces of fish/squid once or twice a week.

• Use feeding tongs to place food near the mouth.

5. Common Issues

• Brown Jelly Disease: Caused by poor water quality or damage. If you see brown, slimy tissue, remove the affected area and improve water conditions.

• Tissue Recession: Can be due to high flow, poor placement, or aggression from other corals.

• Inflated Base Syndrome: Sometimes the coral inflates excessively, which may indicate stress or improper placement.