Are plate corals hard to keep? - The Institute for Environmental Research and Education

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Are Plate Corals Hard to Keep? Understanding the Challenges and Rewards

The answer to Are plate corals hard to keep? is it depends on the species and the aquarist’s experience. While some varieties are relatively hardy, others demand meticulous care and stable water parameters, making them a more challenging choice for beginner reef keepers.

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Introduction to Plate Corals

Plate corals, scientifically known as Fungiidae, are captivating members of the coral family, prized for their unique appearance and relative ease of fragging. Their flattened, often disk-like shape resembles a plate, hence the common name. These corals, primarily belonging to the genera Fungia, Cycloseris, and Herpolitha, can be found across the Indo-Pacific region, adding a touch of exotic beauty to reef aquariums. Determining if Are plate corals hard to keep? requires a deeper understanding of their specific needs.

Different Types of Plate Corals

Several types of plate corals exist, each with its own characteristics and care requirements. Understanding these differences is vital for success.

Fungia: Typically round and free-living, meaning they are not attached to a rock. These are generally considered the hardiest plate corals.
Cycloseris: Smaller than Fungia, also free-living, and can be more sensitive to water conditions.
Herpolitha: Elongated and can reach significant sizes. These often require more space and careful placement.
Heliofungia actiniformis: Also known as the sun coral plate, these have long, flowing tentacles and are notorious for being difficult to keep.

Choosing the right species significantly impacts whether Are plate corals hard to keep?

Essential Water Parameters

Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for all corals, and plate corals are no exception. Pay close attention to the following:

Alkalinity: 8-11 dKH. Fluctuations can stress the coral.
Calcium: 400-450 ppm. Essential for skeletal growth.
Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm. Aids in calcium and alkalinity stability.
pH: 8.1-8.4. Consistent pH is paramount.
Nitrates: 1-5 ppm. High levels can be detrimental.
Phosphates: 0.03-0.1 ppm. Keep these under control to prevent algae issues.

A stable environment significantly influences whether Are plate corals hard to keep?

Lighting and Flow Requirements

Plate corals generally prefer moderate lighting and low to moderate flow. Too much light can bleach them, while insufficient light can cause them to starve. High flow can irritate their tissues, while too little flow can lead to detritus accumulation.

Lighting: PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) between 50-150 is generally suitable, depending on the depth of the tank.
Flow: Gentle, indirect flow to prevent detritus buildup on the coral’s surface. A powerhead placed strategically can help.

Feeding Plate Corals

While plate corals are photosynthetic and derive some energy from light, supplemental feeding is often beneficial, especially for larger specimens.

Food: Offer small pieces of meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or finely chopped seafood.
Frequency: Feed 1-2 times per week, directly targeting the coral’s mouth with a turkey baster or pipette.
Observation: Monitor the coral’s response to feeding. Healthy corals will readily accept food.

Consistent and appropriate feeding contributes to making plate corals easier to keep.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Several common mistakes can lead to the decline of plate corals.

Unstable Water Parameters: Monitor parameters regularly and adjust as needed. Invest in a reliable testing kit.
Incorrect Lighting: Acclimate the coral slowly to the light intensity. Start with lower light and gradually increase it over time.
Inadequate Flow: Ensure sufficient, gentle flow to prevent detritus buildup.
Pest Infestations: Regularly inspect the coral for pests like flatworms or nudibranchs. Dip the coral in a coral dip before introducing it to the tank.
Aggressive Tankmates: Ensure that the plate coral is not being harassed by other corals or fish.

Benefits of Keeping Plate Corals

Despite the potential challenges, keeping plate corals offers several benefits:

Unique Appearance: Plate corals add a distinct aesthetic appeal to reef aquariums.
Relatively Easy Fragging: Plate corals can be fragged, allowing you to propagate them and share them with other hobbyists.
Act as a Natural Substrate Cleaner: They consume detritus and uneaten food, contributing to a cleaner tank.
Educational Value: Caring for plate corals can deepen your understanding of marine ecosystems and coral husbandry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Plate Corals

How big do plate corals get?

Plate corals vary significantly in size. Fungia species typically reach 4-6 inches in diameter, while Herpolitha can grow to be much larger, exceeding 12 inches in length. Consider the mature size of the coral when selecting it for your tank.

What should I do if my plate coral starts to bleach?

Bleaching in plate corals is often caused by stress, particularly from high light or temperature shock. Immediately reduce the light intensity by shading the coral or moving it to a lower location in the tank. Also, verify water parameters and ensure they are within the optimal range.

Can I place my plate coral directly on the sand bed?

For Fungia and Cycloseris, which are free-living, the sand bed is an acceptable location. However, ensure the sand is clean and free of excessive detritus. For other plate corals, a low rock structure is often a better choice to provide stability and better water flow.

How often should I test my water parameters?

Regular water testing is critical. Ideally, test alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium weekly. Nitrates and phosphates should be tested at least once a month. More frequent testing is recommended if you notice any changes in your coral’s appearance or behavior.

What are the signs of a healthy plate coral?

A healthy plate coral will exhibit vibrant color, fully extended tentacles (if applicable), and will readily accept food. It should also show no signs of tissue recession or bleaching.

What are some common pests that affect plate corals?

Common pests include coral eating flatworms, nudibranchs, and certain types of snails. Regularly inspect your coral for these pests and take appropriate action, such as dipping the coral in a coral dip or manually removing the pests.

How important is water flow for plate corals?

Water flow is crucial, but it must be gentle. Too much flow can irritate the coral, while too little can lead to detritus accumulation and potential tissue necrosis. Aim for a low to moderate, indirect flow.

Can I frag a plate coral?

Yes, plate corals, particularly Fungia, can be fragged. Carefully break the coral along natural separation points. The fragments can then be placed in a safe location to heal and grow.

What type of lighting is best for plate corals?

Moderate lighting is generally best. LEDs, metal halides, and T5 fluorescent lights can all be used successfully. Start with lower intensity and gradually increase it to avoid shocking the coral. PAR values between 50-150 are usually adequate.

Is it normal for a plate coral to move around?

Yes, free-living plate corals like Fungia are capable of moving around on the sand bed. This is normal behavior and allows them to find a suitable location with adequate light and flow.

How do I acclimate a new plate coral to my tank?

Proper acclimation is essential. Float the bag in your tank for 15-30 minutes to equalize the temperature. Then, slowly drip water from your tank into the bag over a period of 1-2 hours to acclimate the coral to your water parameters.

Why is my plate coral closed up and not extending its tentacles?

A closed-up plate coral can indicate several issues, including poor water parameters, inadequate lighting, or harassment from tankmates. Check your water parameters first, adjust the lighting if necessary, and observe the coral for any signs of aggression from other inhabitants. If the problem persists, consider moving the coral to a different location in the tank.

By understanding the specific needs of plate corals and addressing potential challenges, aquarists can successfully keep these captivating creatures, adding a unique touch of beauty to their reef aquariums. The answer to Are plate corals hard to keep? ultimately boils down to preparation, research, and a commitment to providing a stable and healthy environment.

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