Fire Echino Chalice

Quick Stats

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

Overview

The Fire Echino Chalice is a show-stopping coral with vivid coloration that stands out even in low-light areas of the aquarium. Its encrusting growth pattern makes it an excellent choice for hobbyists looking to add depth and texture to their reef. A relatively hardy coral, it offers a rewarding experience for reefers of nearly all skill level.

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

This coral thrives in stable water conditions with regular water changes. Corals with a skeleton base, 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): 1.024-1.026
• Temperature: 75-78 Degrees F
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-9dKH
• Calcium: 380-450ppm
• Magnesium: 1300-1450ppm
• Nitrate (NO3): 10-30ppm
• Phosphate: 0.01-0.1ppm
• Nitrite (NO2): Undetectable
• Ammonia (NH3): Undetectable

Lighting Requirements

This Chalice is an adaptable coral that prefers lower light areas of the aquarium, usually in the 75-150 PAR range. While it can handle slightly higher light, it's best to acclimate it gradually to avoid stress. 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 vibrant color and long-term health.

Ideal Tank Placement

Position this Chalice low in the rockwork, where it has room to grow and encrust. Ensure it has sufficient space around it to avoid contact with neighboring corals, as its sweeper tentacles can sting and irritate them.

Water Flow Requirements

Moderate indirect flow is ideal to keep debris from settling on its surface without causing damage to its tissue. Regularly check and adjust flow patterns as the coral grows to maintain proper conditions.

Aggressiveness and Compatibility

It's important to give this coral room to grow. At night, it can extend sweeper tentacles to compete for space, so placing it too close to other corals can result in stinging. However, it is generally compatible with reef-safe fish and invertebrates that won’t disturb or harm the coral.

Feeding and Nutrition

While Chalice corals rely mainly on photosynthesis, they can benefit from occasional supplementation with Amino Acids like CoralAmino or targeted feeding of phytoplankton. This supports coral health, enhances growth, and brings out their stunning colors.

Growth Rate and Pattern

This coral has a moderate growth rate, spreading over surfaces and forming plate-like structures. This makes it an excellent choice for aquarists looking for a colorful coral that covers rockwork.

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.