Green or Multicolor Fungia

Discover the Fascinating Fungia Plate Coral

Introducing the captivating Fungia Plate coral, a member of the coral genus Fungia within the family Fungiidae. These remarkable corals are primarily solitary in nature, some reaching an impressive diameter of up to 12 inches. The Fungia Plate coral comes in two intriguing variations: the "short tentacle" and the "long tentacle." Classified as large polyp stony (LPS) corals, they grace your reef with an array of enchanting colors, including shades of green, orange, pink, purple, red, and blue. It's no wonder that Reef Chasers around the world are drawn to the allure of the Fungia Plate coral.

Ideal Living Conditions

For optimal care, Fungia Plate corals thrive in moderate lighting conditions, complemented by gentle to moderate water movement, with a recommended range of 150-250 PAR. In their natural habitat, you can often find them nestled among the reef rubble. To ensure their happiness in your reef tank, provide them a comfortable spot at the bottom of your substrate. Avoid areas where sand might drift onto them, as it can be irritating. While these corals can inflate themselves to clear away sand and expose themselves to light, it's best to minimize their effort by selecting a suitable location.

Nutrient Requirements

Fungia Plates maintain a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae known as zooxanthellae, which provides them with essential nutrients. They also engage in filter-feeding to capture nutrients from the water column. Enhance their diet with additional nourishment, such as microplankton or specialized filter-feeding invertebrate foods. Regular targeted feedings of zooplankton, Mysis shrimp, or brine shrimp can further bolster their health and vitality.

Solitary and Semi-Aggressive Nature

It's essential to understand that Fungia Plate corals are solitary and semi-aggressive creatures. When they expand, they can double in size, posing a risk to neighboring corals with their tentacles. Additionally, they can release tissue-damaging mucus to deter potential threats. When selecting a habitat for your Fungia Plate, ensure there's ample space for them to grow and flourish without intruding on neighboring coral colonies. When handling these corals, exercise caution to prevent tissue damage and avoid getting slimed.