ACI Sunrise Cyphastrea Coral
Mummy Eye Chalice Coral displays a flat, plating skeleton with bright orange “eyes” set in a contrasting base. Echinophyllia sp. is a stony plating coral that does best under low to moderate light and gentle to moderate water flow. It is primarily photosynthetic via symbiotic algae but benefits from occasional small meaty feedings, which can support growth and color. Place it on a stable surface with space around it, as it can extend sweeper tentacles at night and sting nearby corals.
photosynthetic, microplankton, zooplankton, rotifers, cyclops, oyster eggs, coral-specific powdered foods, finely minced mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp (finely chopped), marine snow
Echinophyllia can bank or shed pigments in response to spectrum and nutrient balance, not just PAR. Excess blue with ultra-low nitrate/phosphate often washes green fluorescence, while warm-spectrum peaks (red/amber) push browning. Target a moderate PAR (80–150), maintain NO3 5–15 ppm and PO4 0.03–0.08 ppm, and avoid sudden spectrum changes. Stability for 3–4 weeks usually restores color.
Edge recession on this chalice often stems from localized irritation: detritus accumulation on the cupped surface, stinging from nearby LPS, or nocturnal sweeper contact. Increase laminar, low–medium crossflow to keep the surface clean, siphon debris weekly, and ensure 3–4 inches of clearance. A narrow ring of cyano on the rim is a giveaway—reduce organics, not just increase flow.
Feed small particle foods (reef roids, fine mysis slurry) 1–2 times weekly at night when feeders extend. Briefly pause flow to target feed, then resume gentle flow after 5–10 minutes to clear leftovers. Oversized chunks cause prolonged contact and irritation. If film appears next day, cut portions in half and consider a post-feed turkey baster puff to remove residue.
