Pink Long Tentacle Plate Coral
(Heliofungia actiniformis)
Heliofungia corals are typically found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, particularly in areas with moderate water flow and lighting. They are often found in lagoons and reef slopes, attached to hard substrates such as rocks or coral rubble. Like most corals, Heliofungia corals have a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae algae. These algae live within the coral tissues and provide energy through photosynthesis. While they rely on photosynthesis for some of their energy needs, they also require supplemental feeding to thrive. Heliofungia corals are generally not tolerant of copper-based medications or high copper levels in the aquarium. Copper can be toxic to these corals and may lead to tissue damage or death. It is important to avoid copper treatments when keeping Heliofungia corals. Heliofungia corals are considered moderate to challenging to care for in aquariums. They require stable water parameters, including temperature, salinity, and nutrient levels. Additionally, they require regular feeding of small meaty foods, such as chopped seafood or coral-specific pellet foods. Adequate water flow is also necessary to prevent detritus buildup and ensure proper food distribution. Heliofungia corals have a disc or plate-like shape with a solitary polyp. The oral disc of the coral is usually smooth and has long tentacles that extend during feeding. Corals will benefit from the addition of Calcium, Strontium, Iodine, Magnesium and Trace Elements.
Heliofungia Corals are also be known as Plate, Long Tentacle, Mushroom or Disc Corals. Commonly seen in the aquarium trade. They come in a variety of colors, including shades of orange, red, green, and brown. Colony Polyps will vary greatly in size and formation.
Water conditions: Salinity 1.023 - 1.025 Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Hardness 8 - 12 dKH
- Care: Easy
- Behavior: Social
- Diet: Live Food Frozen Food
- Habitat: Reef
- Light: Medium