Common name: bubble coral
General information
The Frogspawn Coral, Euphyllia divisa, is a large polyp stony (LPS) coral that is popular among reef aquarium hobbyists for its unique appearance and waving tentacle tips, which resemble a mass of frogspawn or fish eggs. This coral is known for its ease of care and the dynamic movement it brings to the reef tank environment.
Details
- Lighting
- 50 to 150 PAR
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 7.8 to 8.4
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality.
- Flow
- Moderate Prefers gentle, indirect flow.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can sting nearby corals.
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumCnidariansCnidaria
- ClassAnthozoansAnthozoa
- OrderStony CoralsScleractinia
- FamilyHammer CoralsEuphyllidae
- GenusHammer CoralEuphyllia
- Speciesbubble coralEuphyllia divisa Veron & Pichon, 1979
- SynonymsFimbriaphyllia divisa (Veron & Pichon, 1979)
Care
Frogspawn Coral is relatively hardy and can thrive in a range of lighting conditions, from moderate to high intensity. However, it prefers moderate water flow to allow its tentacles to sway gently, which is not only captivating to watch but also aids in feeding and respiration. It's important to provide ample space between Frogspawn Coral and other corals to prevent stinging encounters, as it can extend its sweeper tentacles at night to ward off or damage neighboring corals.
Symbiosis
While not hosting fish like some anemones, Frogspawn Coral can have a mutualistic relationship with certain cleaner shrimp and small fish, which may seek refuge among its tentacles. These animals help keep the coral free from parasites and provide a degree of protection.
Habitat
In the wild, Euphyllia divisa is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in shallow waters where it attaches to rocky substrates or reef slopes. It is often found in areas with moderate currents, which facilitate the delivery of planktonic food to the coral.