Description
Rock Red Mushroom (Fungiidae Coral) (Discosoma sp.)
(Also known as Red Mushroom Coral, Disc Anemone, or Red Rock Mushroom Coral)
Overview
The Rock Red Mushroom (Discosoma sp.) is a hardy and brilliantly coloured soft coral (Corallimorpharian) prized for its vivid red tones and smooth, fleshy appearance. Its broad, circular oral disc displays rich shades of crimson, scarlet, or metallic red, often with subtle highlights of orange or pink under blue-spectrum lighting. The coral’s soft surface may show faint radial lines extending from the centre, adding depth and character. Peaceful, resilient, and low-maintenance, the Red Mushroom Coral is perfect for aquarists seeking a bold splash of colour in shaded or low-light areas of their reef aquarium.
Origin
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea, Fiji, Tonga, Indonesia, and the Solomon Islands. Found in protected reef slopes, lagoonal environments, and under rocky ledges, where light levels are moderate to low and water flow is gentle.
Feeding
The Rock Red Mushroom Coral is photosynthetic, relying primarily on zooxanthellae within its tissues. Supplemental feeding can enhance colour vibrancy and promote faster growth. 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 coral powders
Target feeding is optional but helps encourage colony expansion and reproduction.
Lighting
Low to moderate lighting. Discosoma corals thrive under gentle, diffused illumination and may bleach under overly intense light.
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PAR range: 50–150 µmol/m²/s
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Ideal for shaded rockwork, aquarium corners, or lower reef zones.
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Blue and actinic lighting enhances the coral’s deep red fluorescence.
Water Flow
Low to moderate, indirect flow. Gentle water movement allows full expansion while preventing debris buildup. Avoid strong, direct currents, which can cause tissue retraction or detachment.
Placement
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Place on lower rockwork or substrate, in shaded or partially lit areas.
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Allow 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) of space between colonies or neighbouring corals.
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Discosoma attaches naturally to rock and spreads by budding or tissue fission, gradually forming colourful carpets.
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Excellent for nano reefs and low-light sections of mixed coral 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 shrimp, snails, 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 can release mild toxins and may overgrow slower-growing neighbours if placed too close. Provide adequate spacing to prevent contact.
Experience Level
Beginner. The Rock Red Mushroom Coral is hardy, forgiving, and highly adaptable, making it suitable for aquarists of all experience 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); ideal for nano reefs and larger systems
Stable water quality and moderate nutrient levels support optimal growth and maintain the coral’s deep red pigmentation.
