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𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐬 (𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐲𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚 𝐣𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐢): 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞

21 Mar, 2025 227
𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐬 (𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐲𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚 𝐣𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐢): 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞

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𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐬 (𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐲𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚 𝐣𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐢):

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞

Introduction

We’ve all been there—wandering through the local fish store, mesmerized by the flowing tentacles and striking colors of an Elegance coral. But before you take one home, it’s essential to understand what makes this coral unique, how to keep it happy, and the challenges it can present. This guide will break down everything you need to know about Elegance corals (Catalaphyllia jardinei), from placement and lighting to feeding and troubleshooting.


Identification & Morphology

How to Recognize an Elegance Coral

  • Large, fleshy polyps with long, flowing tentacles.

  • A central mouth structure that expands and contracts when feeding.

  • Color variations range from green, pink, purple, blue, or neon highlights with contrasting tentacle tips.

  • A long, meandering skeletal base rather than a compact, round skeleton.


Are Elegance Corals Easy to Keep?

Elegance corals can be both rewarding and challenging, depending on where they come from and how well their needs are met. In the past, they were considered relatively easy to keep, but changes in collection practices have made their survival in captivity more variable.

1. Indo-Pacific vs. Australian Elegance Corals

    • Indo-Pacific Elegance Corals: These are more common but often arrive in poor health due to shipping stress and exposure to Elegance Coral Syndrome (ECS), a bacterial infection that causes tissue recession and inflation issues.
    • Australian Elegance Corals: Generally hardier, these corals tend to adapt better to aquarium conditions and have a higher survival rate. They are usually more expensive but well worth the investment.

2. Tank Conditions Play a Major Role

    • If placed in the wrong flow or lighting, Elegance corals can struggle. They prefer low to moderate flow and moderate lighting rather than intense reef tank conditions meant for SPS corals.
    • They require stable water parameters, as fluctuations in alkalinity, calcium, or salinity can stress them out.
    • Unlike many other LPS corals, Elegance corals don’t tolerate being placed on rockwork—they thrive best on a sandy substrate.

3. Potential for Long-Term Success

    • If sourced properly and given ideal conditions, Elegance corals can grow large and live for many years.
    • Regular feeding with meaty foods such as mysis shrimp or finely chopped seafood helps maintain their health and vibrant colors.

Placement & Aquascaping Considerations

Where to Place Elegance Corals in Your Tank

Choosing the right placement for an Elegance coral is essential to its long-term health. Unlike some LPS corals that do well on rockwork, Elegance corals have a large, fleshy base that is prone to damage if placed on rough surfaces. Proper positioning will not only ensure they thrive but also prevent unnecessary stress and injuries.

1. Soft, Sandy Substrate is Best

    • Why? Elegance corals naturally settle in sandy lagoon areas or gentle reef slopes in the wild, where they are not exposed to sharp surfaces.
    • A fine to medium-grain sand bed provides a soft cushion for their delicate tissue and prevents irritation or tearing.
    • If necessary, create a small depression in the sand to help anchor the coral securely while still allowing gentle movement.

2. Avoid Placing on Live Rock

    • Tissue Damage Risk: The weight of the coral, combined with the water flow, can cause its fleshy base to rub against sharp or uneven rock, leading to abrasions and infections.
    • Stability Issues: Elegance corals can expand significantly throughout the day, and if placed on rockwork, they may shift or fall, further increasing the risk of injury.
    • If rock placement is unavoidable (such as in bare-bottom tanks), consider placing a flat, smooth surface like a small acrylic plate or a piece of ceramic tile under the coral to protect its base.
    • Keep them away from rock overhangs or nearby structures that could block their expansion or cause them to get wedged in place.

3. Keep Away from High Flow Zones

    • Moderate, indirect flow is ideal—too much current can cause excessive movement, leading to stress or tears in their tissue.
    • If the coral’s tentacles appear whipped around aggressively or aren’t fully extending, the flow may be too strong. Try repositioning it in a calmer area of the tank.
    • Dead spots should also be avoided since stagnant water can lead to detritus buildup and bacterial infections.

Tamara’s Pro Tip: If your Elegance coral seems unhappy after placement, try adjusting its angle or orientation slightly. Sometimes a simple repositioning can make all the difference in achieving the right balance of flow, lighting, and comfort!

 

Defense Capabilities and Aggressiveness

Elegance corals are highly aggressive and possess powerful sweeper tentacles that can extend up to six inches beyond their base. These tentacles are loaded with nematocysts (stinging cells) that pack a punch strong enough to injure or kill nearby corals.

1. How They Defend Their Territory

    • Elegance corals inflate their tissue dramatically throughout the day and can extend long sweeper tentacles at night.
    • Elegance corals use their sweeper tentacles to protect their space, warding off encroaching corals and other tank inhabitants.
    • The sting can cause necrosis in corals that get too close, leading to tissue loss and eventual death.
    • Some hobbyists report that certain Elegance corals release chemical warfare compounds to further deter competitors.

2. Tank Placement to Avoid Conflicts

    • Provide at least 6-8 inches of space between an Elegance coral and any other corals.
    • Never place Elegance corals near delicate corals like Acropora, Montipora, or Zoanthids, as they will not survive prolonged exposure to its sting.
    • Some LPS corals like torches, hammers, and frogspawn can hold their own against Elegance corals, but it’s still best to give them space to avoid unnecessary stress.

3. Can They Harm Fish?

    • While most healthy fish know to avoid their tentacles, slow-moving species like gobies, blennies, or certain wrasses may accidentally brush against an Elegance coral and get stung.
    • Larger fish generally won’t be affected, but small fish may get stunned or killed if they make contact repeatedly.

 

Tank Compatibility

Elegance corals can coexist peacefully with many reef-safe fish and invertebrates, but due to their large, fleshy structure and long sweeper tentacles, careful consideration should be given to their tank mates. Certain species may pose a risk by nipping, perching, or disturbing the coral, leading to stress and potential damage.

Elegance corals generally do well with peaceful to semi-aggressive fish that won’t pick at their delicate tentacles. However, some species have a tendency to nip at corals, mistaking their flowing polyps for food.

Caution With These Fish:

  • Angelfish (Centropyge & Pomacanthus species) – Many dwarf and large angelfish are known to nip at LPS corals, including Elegance corals. Some individuals behave well, but others will constantly pick at tentacles.
  • Butterflyfish – Most species, particularly those like the Copperband Butterfly (Chelmon rostratus), see fleshy corals as food and will likely cause damage.
  • Certain Wrasses (Coris, Maori, or Bird Wrasses) – Larger, more aggressive wrasses may harass the coral by pecking at its tentacles or dislodging it from the sandbed.
  • Triggerfish – Many triggers are destructive and may bite the coral out of curiosity. Some smaller species like the Blue Throat or Niger Trigger might be safe, but it's still a risk.
  • Pufferfish – Often nippy and inquisitive, puffers may bite at the coral’s flesh.

 

Invertebrate Compatibility

Most reef-safe invertebrates will coexist peacefully with Elegance corals, but a few can cause issues by disturbing, climbing on, or damaging the coral.

Caution With These Invertebrates:

  • Large Hermit Crabs (like Halloween Hermits) – Some may knock over or disturb the coral while foraging.
  • Emerald Crabs (Mithrax sculptus) – While often reef-safe, larger individuals have been observed nipping at fleshy corals if underfed.
  • Pistol Shrimp & Large Crustaceans – Some burrowing shrimp may disrupt the coral’s placement by digging too close to its base.
  • Anemone Crabs & Porcelain Crabs – These filter feeders may climb onto the coral looking for a host, causing irritation.
  • Larger Snails (like Mexican Turbo Snails) – Their bulky size and erratic movement can lead to accidental damage if they knock over the coral.

Lighting Requirements

Elegance corals thrive under moderate lighting conditions, making them adaptable to a variety of reef tank setups. However, improper lighting intensity—either too strong or too weak—can stress the coral, affecting its color, polyp extension, and overall health.

Ideal Lighting Intensity

  • PAR Range: 100-200 PAR
  • Lighting Types: T5s, LEDs, or hybrid lighting systems
  • Preferred Placement: Lower in the tank, ideally on a soft sandbed away from direct, intense light

Unlike some LPS corals that prefer intense lighting, Elegance corals are adapted to diffused light in their natural habitat, often found in lagoonal environments or at the base of reef structures. This means they do not require blazing SPS-level lighting to thrive. Instead, they do best under a moderate and steady lighting intensity.

 

Signs of Too Much Light

If exposed to excessive lighting, Elegance corals may bleach, retract their tentacles, or appear shrunken. This is because excessive light can cause the coral’s zooxanthellae (symbiotic algae) to expel, leading to fading colors or tissue stress.

  • Indicators of too much light:
    • Tentacles appear shorter or more tightly curled
    • Coral starts looking pale, washed out, or loses vibrancy
    • Skeleton becomes more visible as tissue retracts
    • Brown spots may appear (excessive expulsion of zooxanthellae)

Tamara's Pro Tips: If your Elegance coral starts showing these signs, gradually lower its light exposure by moving it to a shadier area, using light diffusers, or reducing LED intensity.

 

Signs of Too Little Light

On the flip side, inadequate lighting can also affect growth and coloration. While Elegance corals don’t need extreme brightness, too little light can reduce their energy intake from photosynthesis.

  • Indicators of too little light:
    • Tentacles appear elongated or excessively stretched
    • Growth slows or stops entirely
    • Colors become darker or duller over time
    • Coral may not fully open during daylight hours

Tamara's Pro Tips: If your Elegance coral appears to be reaching for light, consider moving it to an area with slightly more illumination while avoiding direct exposure to intense light sources.

 

Acclimating to New Lighting

Like most LPS corals, Elegance corals benefit from gradual acclimation to new lighting conditions to prevent stress or bleaching. Whether you’re introducing a new Elegance coral or upgrading your lighting system, take it slow.

  • Use the “Screen Method” – Place a few layers of mesh or window screen over the tank and remove one layer per day to ease the coral into brighter lighting.
  • Adjust LED Intensity Gradually – If using controllable LEDs, increase brightness by no more than 5-10% per week.
  • Observe Polyp Extension – A healthy Elegance coral should have fully extended tentacles during the day with gentle swaying movement. If it remains contracted for days, reevaluate placement.

Flow Requirements

Elegance corals thrive in low to moderate water flow conditions, mimicking the gentle water movement found in their natural lagoon and reef-base environments. Too much flow can cause excessive movement of their delicate, fleshy polyps, leading to stress, retraction, or even physical damage.

Ideal Flow Conditions

  • Flow Strength: Low to moderate
  • Flow Type: Indirect, randomized flow
  • Placement Considerations: Keep them in an area where they experience gentle, swaying movement rather than forceful currents

Unlike some corals that benefit from strong, turbulent flow, Elegance corals are sensitive to high-velocity currents. Their large, fleshy polyps can tear or become irritated when exposed to direct, powerful streams. Instead, they prefer steady but indirect movement, ensuring they receive enough water circulation for waste removal and oxygen exchange without being battered.

 

Signs of Too Much Flow

If your Elegance coral is placed in an area with excessive water movement, it may show several signs of distress, including:

  • Tentacles appearing short, tightly curled, or constantly pulled in
  • Coral remains retracted for extended periods
  • Tissue recession or damage along the edges
  • Difficulty extending its polyps fully during daylight hours

Tamara's Pro Tips: If you notice these signs, try adjusting the placement to a more sheltered area, such as a lower part of the tank or a spot with indirect flow. Redirecting powerheads or adjusting wave makers can also help create a gentler water movement.

 

Signs of Too Little Flow

While too much flow is problematic, insufficient water movement can also lead to issues such as:

  • Mucus or detritus buildup on the coral’s tissue
  • Slower polyp expansion and reduced feeding response
  • Increased risk of bacterial infections due to stagnant water

Tamara's Pro Tips: If your coral seems to be collecting debris or not extending fully, consider repositioning it to an area with slightly more movement. A randomized, pulsing flow from a wave maker or an adjustable powerhead can create a more natural, dynamic environment without overwhelming the coral.

 

Positioning for Optimal Flow

  • Avoid placing Elegance corals directly in the path of a powerhead or strong directional flow.
  • Position them where they experience a gentle swaying motion, rather than rapid, erratic movement.
  • If the coral remains retracted for several days, experiment with small adjustments in its placement to find the ideal spot.

Elegance corals can be quite expressive in how they react to flow conditions, so paying close attention to their behavior will help you fine-tune their environment.


Feeding & Nutrition

Elegance corals rely on zooxanthellae, their symbiotic algae, to produce energy through photosynthesis, but they also benefit significantly from supplemental feeding. Providing a well-balanced diet ensures faster growth, vibrant colors, and overall coral health.

Best Foods for Elegance Corals

To mimic their natural diet, Elegance corals thrive on meaty marine-based foods that are appropriately sized for their large, fleshy tentacles to capture and consume.

  • Mysis shrimp – A nutrient-rich staple food that’s easily digestible
  • Chopped fish, squid, or shrimp – Small pieces of fresh seafood provide essential proteins and fatty acids
  • Reef-specific meaty foods (e.g., Reef Roids, Coral Frenzy) – Designed for coral consumption, containing a blend of plankton, proteins, and amino acids

 

How Often to Feed

  • Feed Elegance corals 2-3 times per week for optimal health and growth.
  • Spot feeding at night or when tentacles are fully extended increases food capture efficiency.
  • Avoid overfeeding—excess uneaten food can lead to poor water quality and nuisance algae growth.

 

Best Feeding Practices

  • Use a turkey baster or pipette to gently deliver food directly to the coral’s tentacles.
  • Turn off powerheads and wavemakers temporarily during feeding to prevent food from being blown away.
  • Monitor how quickly the coral captures and consumes food—if excess food is left behind, adjust portion sizes.

Water Parameters & Maintenance

  • Temperature: 76-80°F (24-27°C)

  • Salinity: 1.025-1.026

  • pH: 8.1-8.4

  • Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH

  • Calcium: 400-450 ppm

  • Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm

  • Nitrate: 5-10 ppm

  • Phosphate: 0.03-0.1 ppm


Elegance Coral Syndrome (ECS): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Elegance Coral Syndrome (ECS) is a poorly understood but devastating condition that affects Catalaphyllia jardinei, commonly known as Elegance corals. This syndrome has been observed primarily in aquariums but is rarely documented in the wild. ECS leads to rapid tissue loss, excessive mucus production, and eventual death if left untreated. It has been a major concern among reef hobbyists since the early 2000s, as previously hardy specimens began showing signs of sudden decline.

Causes of Elegance Coral Syndrome

While the exact cause of ECS remains unclear, several contributing factors have been identified:

1. Bacterial Infection

    • ECS is suspected to be caused by a bacterial pathogen, potentially a species of Vibrio or other opportunistic bacteria.
    • Infected corals show excessive mucus production and tissue degradation, similar to other bacterial coral infections.

2. Environmental Stressors

    • Poor water quality (fluctuating alkalinity, low oxygen levels, excessive nutrients) can weaken the coral's immune system, making it more susceptible to infections.
    • Strong flow or mechanical damage from rough handling can create entry points for bacteria.
    • Exposure to high-intensity lighting without proper acclimation may stress the coral and trigger symptoms.

3. Specimen Origin

    • Some reef keepers believe that Indo-Pacific Elegance corals collected from deeper, silty lagoons adapt poorly to the bright lights and pristine conditions of reef aquariums.
    • The sudden shift from their natural, turbid habitat to a high-energy reef environment may be a contributing factor.

4. Tank Crowding & Aggressive Tankmates

    • Corals that are stung or irritated by other corals or nipped by fish (e.g., angelfish, butterflyfish) are more prone to developing ECS.

 

Symptoms of Elegance Coral Syndrome

Recognizing ECS early is critical for attempting treatment. Symptoms typically progress quickly, often within days to weeks.

  • Excessive mucus production – The coral excretes thick mucus, sometimes covering itself completely.
  • Tissue retraction and deflation – The polyps shrink significantly, and the fleshy tissue recedes from the skeleton.
  • Mouth gaping – The oral opening of the coral remains wide open, sometimes expelling excess mucus.
  • Loss of tentacle extension – The coral stops expanding, even under proper lighting and flow.
  • Brown jelly-like substance – Some cases of ECS resemble Brown Jelly Disease (BJD), where bacterial decay creates a gelatinous mass on the coral.

 

Treatment & Management of Elegance Coral Syndrome

Since ECS has no definitive cure, treatment is based on improving water conditions, reducing stress, and treating potential bacterial infections. It is recommened to move the coral immedistely into a quarantine for treatment.

1. Improve Water Quality

  • Maintain stable alkalinity (8-10 dKH), calcium (400-450 ppm), and magnesium (1250-1350 ppm).
  • Keep nitrates between 5-10 ppm and phosphates around 0.03-0.05 ppm to prevent stress from excessive nutrient swings.
  • Avoid drastic parameter fluctuations that can further weaken the coral.

2. Reduce Flow and Light Stress

  • Place the Elegance coral in a low to moderate flow area—excessive flow can further stress an already struggling coral.
  • Lower light intensity to 100-150 PAR and gradually increase exposure over time if needed.

3. Perform a Coral Dip

  • Iodine-based dips (Lugol’s Solution or Seachem Reef Dip) can help disinfect the coral and slow bacterial progression.
  • How to Dip:
    • Prepare a container with tank water and add the iodine dip solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • Gently submerge the coral for 5-10 minutes, occasionally swishing it to dislodge bacteria.
    • Rinse the coral in clean tank water before placing it back in the display tank.

4. Antibiotic Treatment (Experimental)

  • Some reefers have reported limited success using antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin or kanamycin to treat ECS.
  • The most effective method is a quarantine bath in a separate tank with a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
  • However, antibiotic use is controversial and should be considered a last resort.

5. Remove Decayed Tissue

  • If the coral has significant tissue loss or brown jelly, gently siphon off the decayed parts to prevent bacterial spread.

6. Feed the Coral

  • While ECS-affected corals may not extend their tentacles, feeding small amounts of mysis shrimp, chopped fish, or reef-specific coral foods can sometimes encourage recovery.
  • Spot-feed once or twice a week and observe if the coral responds positively.

 

Prevention: How to Avoid Elegance Coral Syndrome

Since ECS is difficult to treat, prevention is the best approach:

  • Purchase healthy specimens – Avoid corals that appear deflated, have excessive mucus, or show tissue recession at the store.
  • Acclimate properly – Slowly adjust the coral to your tank’s lighting and flow conditions.
  • Quarantine new corals – A 2-4 week quarantine helps detect potential health issues before introducing new corals to the main tank.
  • Keep stable parameters – Fluctuations in alkalinity, pH, and salinity can stress corals and make them vulnerable.
  • Avoid direct rock placement – Always place Elegance corals on soft sand to prevent mechanical damage to their delicate tissue.
  • Monitor tankmates – Fish like butterflyfish, angelfish, and larger wrasses may nip at Elegance corals, increasing stress.

Common Problems & Troubleshooting

1. Problem: Tissue Recession & Deflation

Cause: Poor water quality, stress, lack of food, or bacterial infections.

Solution:

  • Test and correct water parameters, ensuring stable alkalinity (8-12 dKH), calcium (400-450 ppm), and magnesium (1250-1350 ppm).
  • Reduce stressors such as aggressive tankmates, high flow, or unstable lighting.
  • Increase spot-feeding with meaty foods like mysis shrimp or chopped seafood to support recovery.
  • If bacterial infection is suspected, consider a broad-spectrum coral dip (e.g., iodine-based dips).

 

2. Problem: Mouth Gaping & Excess Mucus Production

Cause: Excessive flow, unstable parameters, bacterial infection.

Solution:

  • Adjust flow direction to create a gentle, swaying motion rather than direct pressure.
  • Perform regular water tests and correct any swings in salinity, alkalinity, or temperature.
  • If the coral continues to produce excessive mucus, remove detritus or debris buildup around it and ensure proper filtration.
  • Quarantine and dip the coral in an antibacterial solution if symptoms persist.

 

3. Problem: Sudden Shrinking or No Tentacle Expansion

Cause: Low light levels, excessive flow, or stress from tankmates.

Solution:

  • Gradually move the coral to a slightly brighter area if lighting is too dim (target 100-200 PAR).
  • Adjust powerheads to ensure gentle, indirect flow instead of strong currents.
  • Observe tankmates—certain fish like angelfish and butterflyfish may be nipping at its tentacles.

 

4. Problem: Elegance Coral Stung by Another Coral

Cause: Contact with aggressive corals like torches, hammers, or anemones.

Solution:

  • Move the Elegance coral further away to prevent continued stings.
  • If tissue damage occurs, perform a coral dip to prevent secondary infection.
  • Monitor tentacle reach of neighboring corals, especially during night-time expansion.

 

5. Problem: Coral Losing Color or Bleaching

Cause: Too much light, low nutrients, or unstable water conditions.

Solution:

  • If bleaching occurs, move the coral to a lower-light area with moderate shading.
  • Ensure nitrate (5-10 ppm) and phosphate (0.03-0.1 ppm) levels are maintained—too "clean" of a tank can starve corals.
  • Feed regularly with a variety of meaty foods to support energy needs.

 

6. Problem: Tentacles Staying Short and Retracted

Cause: Poor water quality, inadequate feeding, or aggressive fish.

Solution:

  • Test water parameters and correct any imbalances in alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium.
  • Try broadcast feeding first to stimulate a feeding response before spot-feeding.
  • Remove or rehome aggressive fish that may be harassing the coral.

FAQs About Elegance Corals

1. How long do Elegance corals live?

Elegance corals have the potential to live for decades in captivity when provided with stable water parameters and proper care. In the wild, these corals can thrive for hundreds of years, forming large colonies in soft, sandy lagoon environments. The key to long-term success in an aquarium is maintaining consistent water chemistry, moderate lighting, proper placement on sand, and regular feeding to support their growth and resilience.

2. Can I keep multiple Elegance corals together?

Yes, multiple Elegance corals can coexist in the same tank, but they still need adequate spacing to prevent their long, flowing tentacles from coming into contact with each other. While they tend to tolerate their own species better than other corals, direct contact can still lead to aggression or stress, especially if one is larger and more dominant. Allow at least six inches of space between Elegance corals to ensure they can fully expand without overlapping.

3. Why is my Elegance coral not expanding?

Several factors can cause Elegance corals to remain contracted:

  1. Poor water quality – High nitrate or phosphate levels, ammonia spikes, or unstable alkalinity can stress the coral and prevent it from expanding. Regular water testing and maintaining stable alkalinity (8-10 dKH), calcium (400-450 ppm), and magnesium (1250-1350 ppm) will help keep it healthy.
  2. Excessive or direct flow – Elegance corals prefer gentle, indirect flow. Too much turbulence can cause them to retract to protect their delicate tissue. Adjust wavemakers to create gentle swaying movement rather than strong currents.
  3. Improper lighting – If the coral is exposed to too much light, it may bleach and retract. On the other hand, too little light may prevent proper photosynthesis. Aim for a moderate light range of 100-200 PAR and gradually adjust placement if necessary.
  4. Recent environmental changes – Elegance corals are sensitive to sudden changes in salinity, temperature, or chemical dosing. If it has recently been moved or introduced into the tank, give it a few days to acclimate before making additional adjustments.
  5. Lack of feeding – Although they rely on photosynthesis, Elegance corals benefit from supplemental feedings of mysis shrimp, chopped seafood, or reef-specific coral foods a few times a week. A hungry coral may not expand fully.

4. Can an Elegance coral recover from damage?

Yes, Elegance corals have a strong ability to heal from minor injuries and tissue damage if they are provided with the right care. Recovery depends on early intervention and stable conditions. Here’s how to support healing:

  • Ensure stable water parameters – Keep alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium in check, as these are critical for skeletal regeneration.
  • Reduce flow stress – Avoid excessive water movement that could further irritate damaged tissue.
  • Target-feed with meaty foods – Regular feeding provides the coral with extra nutrients to rebuild lost tissue.
  • Perform iodine dips if needed – If signs of infection appear, a short iodine dip can help disinfect the wound and prevent bacterial infections.
  • Prevent aggression – If the coral has been stung or damaged by another coral, ensure it has a safe, isolated space to recover.

Conclusion

Elegance corals are among the most visually stunning LPS corals in the reefing hobby, but they require specific care to thrive. By maintaining stable water conditions, providing gentle flow, and offering supplemental feeding, you can enjoy a healthy, vibrant Elegance coral for years to come. While they may not be the best choice for absolute beginners, with the right knowledge and attention, these corals can become the centerpiece of any reef tank.

Happy Reefing!

 

References:

  1. Borneman, Eric H. Aquarium Corals: Selection, Husbandry, and Natural History. TFH Publications, 2001.

  2. Shimek, Ronald L. Marine Invertebrates: 500+ Essential-to-Know Aquarium Species. Microcosm Ltd., 2005.

  3. Euphyllia Corals Grow Best in Rhythmic Pulsing FlowReef Builders, 26 Sep. 2018, reefbuilders.com/2022/03/15/euphyllia-coral-care-guide/.

  4. Fenner, Robert. The Conscientious Marine Aquarist: A Commonsense Handbook for Successful Saltwater Hobbyists. TFH Publications, 2008.