Description
Rock Blue Mushroom (Fungiidae Coral) (Discosoma sp.)
(Also known as Blue Mushroom Coral, Disc Anemone, or Blue Rock Mushroom Coral)
Overview
The Rock Blue Mushroom (Discosoma sp.) is a hardy and visually stunning soft coral (Corallimorpharian) known for its vivid blue colouration and smooth, disc-shaped appearance. Its fleshy oral disc is slightly textured, with subtle ridges radiating from the central mouth, and expands to form a flat, circular shape that sways gently with the current. Ranging from sky blue to deep metallic cobalt, this coral glows beautifully under actinic or blue-spectrum lighting, adding a striking pop of colour to the reef aquarium. Highly adaptable and easy to maintain, Discosoma mushrooms are ideal for beginners and experienced reef keepers alike.
Origin
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea, Fiji, Tonga, Indonesia, and the Solomon Islands. Commonly found in lagoonal reefs, shaded slopes, and rocky crevices, where lighting and water flow are moderate to low.
Feeding
The Rock Blue Mushroom Coral is photosynthetic, relying on zooxanthellae within its tissue for energy. However, occasional supplemental feeding promotes growth and enhances colour vibrancy. Feed 1–2 times per week with:
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Finely chopped seafood (shrimp, clam, or fish)
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Mysis or enriched brine shrimp
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Marine snow or powdered coral foods
Target feeding is optional but can encourage faster growth and colony expansion.
Lighting
Low to moderate lighting. Discosoma prefers gentle, diffused illumination and may fade or retract under intense light.
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PAR range: 50–150 µmol/m²/s
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Ideal for shaded rockwork or lower areas of the aquarium.
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Blue-spectrum and actinic lighting enhances its brilliant blue tones.
Water Flow
Low to moderate, indirect flow. Gentle, variable water movement encourages full expansion while preventing debris buildup. Strong or direct currents may cause the coral to detach or close.
Placement
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Place on lower rockwork or substrate, in shaded or low-light areas.
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Allow 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) of space between colonies and other corals.
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Discosoma attaches naturally to rock and spreads through budding or tissue division, gradually forming colourful carpets.
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Ideal for nano reefs and as a filler coral in mixed reef systems.
Tank Mates
Reef safe. Compatible with:
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Peaceful reef fish (clownfish, gobies, tangs, wrasses, blennies, etc.)
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Invertebrates such as snails, shrimp, and small hermit crabs
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Other soft corals and non-aggressive LPS species
Avoid:
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Aggressive corals with long sweeper tentacles (e.g., Euphyllia, Galaxea, Hydnophora)
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Butterflyfish or large angelfish that may nip at soft tissue
Aggression
Mildly aggressive. Discosoma mushrooms can release mild toxins and may overgrow slower species if placed too close. Ensure spacing to prevent competition.
Experience Level
Beginner. The Rock Blue Mushroom Coral is extremely hardy, adaptable, and tolerant of varied conditions, making it ideal for reef keepers of all skill levels.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
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Alkalinity (dKH): 8–12
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Calcium: 380–450 ppm
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Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
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Nitrate: <10 ppm (tolerant up to 15 ppm)
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Phosphate: <0.05 ppm
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Tank Size: Minimum 50 litres (13 gallons); suitable for nano reefs and larger systems
Stable parameters and moderate nutrients help maintain vivid blue coloration and consistent expansion.
