Red Chalice
Red Chalice
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Description
Description
Red Chalice Coral
The Red Chalice is a classic and dependable LPS coral valued for its deep red colouration, smooth encrusting growth, and strong fluorescence under blue lighting. Rich crimson tones give this coral a bold, timeless look, making it an excellent choice for reef keepers who want solid colour impact without the extreme demands of more delicate collector morphs.
Ideal for lower reef zones, the Red Chalice provides visual depth and contrast, especially when paired with brighter or multi-coloured corals.
Natural Habitat & Distribution
Chalice corals (commonly Echinophyllia / Mycedium types) originate from the Indo-Pacific region and are found across:
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Indonesia
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Australia’s Great Barrier Reef
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Papua New Guinea
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Fiji and surrounding Pacific islands
In the wild, chalice corals are typically found on shaded reef slopes and lower reef structures where light levels are reduced and flow is gentle.
A Brief History
Chalice corals became extremely popular as reef lighting advanced and their intense fluorescence and layered colours were fully revealed. Solid-colour varieties such as red chalices remain favourites due to their reliability, strong colour retention, and ease of placement in mixed reef systems.
They are often chosen as foundation chalices alongside higher-end named morphs.
Appearance & Growth
Classified as an LPS (Large Polyp Stony) coral, Red Chalice corals feature a low-profile, spreading growth form.
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Deep red to crimson base colour
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Subtle to strong fluorescence under blue lighting
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Smooth to lightly textured surface
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May display contrasting eyes depending on specimen
Growth is slow to moderate, spreading outward as it encrusts surrounding rockwork.
Placement & Lighting
Chalice corals prefer lower light environments.
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Lighting: Low–Medium
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Best placed on lower rockwork or shaded areas
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Excessive light may cause colour fading or stress
Light acclimation is recommended.
Flow Requirements
Provide low to moderate, indirect flow.
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Enough movement to prevent detritus buildup
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Avoid strong or direct flow onto the tissue
A gentle, random flow pattern is ideal.
Water Chemistry
Stable reef parameters are essential for long-term success.
Maintain consistent levels of:
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Alkalinity
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Calcium
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Magnesium
Chalice corals perform best in systems with low to moderate nutrients rather than ultra-low nutrient conditions.
Feeding
Primarily photosynthetic, Red Chalice corals benefit from occasional supplemental feeding.
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Fine meaty foods
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LPS pellets or coral-specific blends
Feed sparingly 1–2 times per week, ideally during lower light periods.
Temperament & Spacing
Chalice corals can be semi-aggressive and may extend sweeper tentacles.
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Allow adequate spacing from neighbouring corals
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Avoid placing near delicate species
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Monitor nighttime sweeper extension
Frag Size & Natural Variation
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Frag size: Typically a mounted frag (unless otherwise stated)
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Colour intensity and growth pattern will vary depending on lighting and tank conditions.
Care Summary
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Care Level: Moderate
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Flow: Low–Medium
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Lighting: Low–Medium
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Temperament: Semi-aggressive
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