ECC Ludicrous Chalice

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Moderate
• Coral Type: LPS (Large Polyp Stony)
• Lighting Requirement: Low (75-150 PAR)
• Flow: Low to Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-Agressive
• Placement: Rockwork
• Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4"

Overview

Ludicrous Chalice is an ultra-bright LPS coral featuring a glowing yellow-green center surrounded by vibrant red and pink edges. Under actinic lighting, its smooth surface and electric color palette make it one of the most eye-catching chalices available. This coral thrives in low to moderate light and flow, and should be placed away from neighboring corals to prevent tissue damage.

Note: This is not a WYSIWYG listing. Photo is a representation of the shape, size, and color of the coral you will receive.

Water Parameters

Corals thrive in stable water conditions with regular water changes. Corals with a hard skeleton, like this one, will consume calcium and alkalinity as they grow, often requiring additional supplementation. Routine water testing helps ensure these needs are consistently met.

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.025-1.026
• Temperature: 75-78 Degrees F
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-9.5 dKH
• Calcium: 400-450ppm
• Magnesium: 1300-1450ppm
• Nitrate (NO3): 10-25ppm
• Phosphate: 0.01-0.1ppm
• Nitrite (NO2): Undetectable
• Ammonia (NH3): Undetectable

Lighting Requirements

This coral prefers low to moderate light areas of the aquarium, ideally in the 75–150 PAR range. Too much light can cause bleaching or loss of coloration, so acclimate slowly and avoid direct placement under high-output fixtures.

For those with mixed reef tanks, a PAR meter is invaluable for fine-tuning light levels across different corals, helping ensure each coral gets the right intensity for its needs. This careful setup supports the coral’s vibrant color and long-term health.

Ideal Tank Placement

This coral is most often placed on lower rockwork, sometimes even in slightly shaded areas.

Water Flow Requirements

Low to moderate flow is ideal. This helps remove debris from the coral’s surface without irritating its delicate tissue.

Aggressiveness and Compatibility

This coral is semi-aggressive and should not be placed where it is in direct contact with neighboring corals. It can extend sweeper tentacles at night, so provide ample space around it.

Feeding and Nutrition

This coral primarily relies on photosynthesis for energy, but can benefit from occasional feedings with coral foods such as Reef Chili and amino acids like CoralAmino to enhance its growth and coloration.

Growth Rate and Pattern

This coral is a slow to moderate grower and has an encrusting growth pattern. As it matures, it can form large, brightly colored colonies that create visual depth in the aquarium.

Acclimation Process

Acclimation is essential for corals to adjust to their new environment. For a full step-by-step process, refer to our Coral Acclimation Guide.