Golden Eye Chalice

The Golden Eye Chalice Coral is a stunning LPS (large-polyp stony) coral, prized for its deep red, purple, or blue base with striking golden-yellow eyes scattered throughout. Some variations may also display green or orange undertones, adding to their dramatic coloration. Under actinic blue lighting, the golden eyes glow intensely, making it a high-end showpiece coral for reef aquariums. This encrusting to plating coral thrives in stable reef environments and is a moderately slow grower.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons, but thrives in 50+ gallons for stability and long-term growth.
• Temperament: Moderately aggressive – extends sweeper tentacles at night, so provide at least 3-5 inches of space from neighboring corals.
• Lighting: Low to moderate (PAR 75-150); too much light can lead to bleaching, while moderate lighting enhances vibrant coloration.
• Flow: Low to moderate – enough to prevent detritus buildup, but gentle enough to avoid polyp retraction.
• Placement:
  • Best placed on lower rockwork or the sandbed, allowing space for encrusting or plating growth.
  • Avoid direct high-flow areas to prevent tissue damage.
• Feeding:
  • Carnivorous – benefits from target feeding 1-2 times per week with:
    • Mysis shrimp
    • Brine shrimp
    • Reef-specific coral foods (powdered or liquid)
  • Gains additional nutrients from photosynthesis via zooxanthellae.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74-78°F (23-26°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.024-1.026
  • Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
  • Calcium: 400-450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
  • Nitrate & Phosphate: Low but detectable (NO₃: 5-10 ppm, PO₄: 0.03-0.07 ppm) – excess nutrients can cause algae overgrowth, while too little may slow growth.

Compatibility:

• Best with other LPS corals, but ensure ample spacing to prevent sweeper tentacle stings.
• Avoid placement near aggressive corals like Galaxea, Hydnophora, or large Euphyllia species.
• Pairs well with soft corals that do not compete for space or nutrients.

Special Considerations:

• Coloration Enhancement: The golden eye contrasts intensify under blue-dominant actinic lighting.
• Fragging: Can be fragged carefully using a dremel or bandsaw, but healing takes time.
• Nighttime Behavior: Extends long sweeper tentacles at night for feeding and defense.

Summary:

The Golden Eye Chalice Coral is a vibrant, hardy, and moderately aggressive LPS coral, perfect for adding bold color and encrusting growth to reef aquariums. With stable water conditions, moderate lighting, and occasional feeding, it will thrive and become a stunning, glowing showpiece in any reef tank.