Chalice Corals (Echinophyllia / Mycedium / Oxypora)

Taxonomy & Identity

Chalice corals have become some of the most collectible and expensive corals in the hobby. Named for their cup or plate-like growth forms, they feature stunning color combinations and patterns. Once considered difficult, proper understanding of their needs has made them more accessible to intermediate hobbyists.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

Chalice corals are found throughout the Indo-Pacific, often on reef slopes and walls at moderate depths. They typically inhabit areas with lower light penetration and moderate water movement. Different genera occupy slightly different niches, with some preferring shadier conditions than others.

Morphology & Growth Forms

Chalices grow as encrusting plates that can develop cup-like or scroll formations. Echinophyllia often have prominent, raised corallites (eyes). Mycedium typically have smaller, more uniform corallites. Oxypora develop thin, delicate plates. Colors and patterns are incredibly diverse—solids, gradients, multicolored eyes, and contrasting growth edges create endless variety.

Lighting Requirements & Spectrum

• Intensity: Low to moderate
• Target PAR: 50–150

Chalices generally prefer lower light conditions and can bleach or lose color under intense illumination. Many develop their best colors under moderate blue-heavy lighting. Position in shaded areas or lower tank regions. High-end specimens often require careful light management to maintain their valuable coloration.

Flow Requirements & Patterns

• Intensity: Low to moderate
• Type: Gentle, indirect

Moderate, indirect flow is ideal. Strong direct currents can damage tissue and prevent polyp extension. Enough flow to prevent detritus accumulation on the plates is important. Chalices are somewhat sensitive to flow compared to other LPS corals.

Nutrient Dynamics & Water Chemistry

Chalices prefer cleaner water than some other LPS corals but not ultra-low nutrients. Stability is critical—parameter swings can cause color loss and tissue recession. Many successful chalice keepers maintain slightly lower nutrients than typical LPS systems.

Feeding Biology & Symbiosis

Chalices contain zooxanthellae and photosynthesize but also benefit from feeding. Many extend small feeding tentacles at night. They can capture fine particulate foods and benefit from target feeding.

• Reef Roids and similar coral powders
• Fine mysis shrimp
• Amino acid supplements
• Coral-specific foods

Regular feeding enhances growth and coloration. Many hobbyists credit amino acid supplementation with improving chalice health and color intensity.

Common Diseases, Pests & Predators

• Tissue necrosis from parameter instability
• Brown Jelly Disease
• Rapid tissue recession (RTN)
• Damage from aggressive neighbors

Chalices can be sensitive to rapid parameter changes. Maintain stable conditions and avoid physical damage. If tissue recession begins, evaluate parameters immediately and consider isolation if bacterial infection is suspected.

Compatibility & Placement

Chalices can be surprisingly aggressive, extending sweeper tentacles several inches at night. They will readily attack neighboring corals. Some chalices are more aggressive than others. Allow generous spacing from all neighbors.

• Best zone: Lower tank, shaded areas
• Give space: 4–6+ inches from other corals
• Orientation: Plates should face light appropriately
• Warning: Can damage SPS corals with sweepers

Fragging Techniques

Chalices can be fragged using a band saw or dremel to cut through the skeleton. Ensure each frag has healthy tissue and adequate skeleton. Some species frag more easily than others. Allow frags to heal in low-light, low-flow conditions before moving to their permanent location.

Aquacultured Strains & Trade Names

The chalice market features countless named varieties: "Miami Hurricane," "Watermelon Chalice," "Red Planet Chalice," "Blue Mummy Eye," "Hollywood Stunner," and hundreds more. Rare colorations command premium prices reaching thousands of dollars for small frags. Most desirable specimens are aquacultured.

Difficulty Rating & Summary

Difficulty: Intermediate

Chalice corals are beautiful collectibles that reward attentive care with stunning colors. They require more precise conditions than beginner LPS but are achievable for hobbyists with stable, mature systems. Their diverse colors and patterns have made them among the most sought-after corals in the hobby.