Nano-Reef.com » Coral Information » Chili Coral

Chili Coral

Photo by: KoolFish

Scientific Name
Alcyonium sp.

Common Name
Chili Coral, Chili Sponge, Red Finger

Lighting
N/A, non-photosynthetic

Aggressiveness
Low

Current
Medium to Strong

Hardiness
Moderate, good for aquarists with at least 6 months reef keeping experience.

Region
Indo Pacific on reef slopes with strong current. Also found in lagoons with strong tidal currents in shady areas attached to hard substrate.

Small colony size, not generally reaching over 6 inches tall with finger like lobes or branches, extends small white feeding polyps. Colors can be red, orange, or purple.

Since this coral is non-photosynthetic (does not feed on light and contains no zooxantheallae) it must be fed on a regular basis. Any phytoplankton, zooplankton, micro food, and brine shrimp is accepted.

Due to this coral not getting overly large it is an excellent candidate for the smaller nano reefs. If placed in a nano reef, point feeding with a small eye dropper or plastic needled syringe is recommended, as free floating food is undesirable.

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