Description
Bullseye Rock Mushroom (Fungiidae Coral) (Red Rhodactis sp.)
(Also known as Red Bullseye Mushroom Coral, Hairy Mushroom Coral, or Elephant Ear Mushroom Coral)
Overview
The Red Bullseye Rock Mushroom (Rhodactis sp.) is a striking and resilient soft coral (Corallimorpharian) renowned for its brilliant red colouration and bullseye-like concentric patterning. Its large, fleshy oral disc displays rich tones of red, crimson, and maroon, often highlighted with hints of orange, pink, or metallic green under blue-spectrum lighting. The surface is covered with short, textured vesicles, giving the coral a soft, velvety look and enhancing its light reflection. Hardy, adaptable, and low maintenance, this coral is a superb choice for aquarists seeking to add a bold splash of colour to shaded or low-light areas of a reef aquarium.
Origin
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea, Fiji, Tonga, Indonesia, and the Solomon Islands. Found on protected reef slopes, lagoonal areas, and under rock ledges, where lighting is moderate to low and water movement is gentle.
Feeding
The Red Bullseye Mushroom Coral is photosynthetic, hosting zooxanthellae that provide most of its energy. Supplemental feeding supports growth and enhances pigmentation. Feed 1–2 times per week with:
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Finely chopped seafood (clam, shrimp, fish)
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Mysis or enriched brine shrimp
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Marine snow or fine coral food powders
Target feeding with a pipette or baster is beneficial, especially in lower-light areas or during recovery.
Lighting
Low to moderate lighting. Rhodactis corals prefer diffused or subdued light and may bleach or shrink under overly intense illumination.
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PAR range: 50–150 µmol/m²/s
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Ideal for shaded rockwork, under overhangs, or lower aquarium zones.
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Blue and actinic spectrums enhance the coral’s deep red fluorescence and contrast beautifully against surrounding corals.
Water Flow
Low to moderate, indirect flow. Gentle, varied water movement encourages full expansion and helps prevent debris buildup. Avoid direct, strong currents that may cause retraction or tissue damage.
Placement
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Place on lower rockwork or substrate, in areas with gentle flow and indirect light.
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Ensure ample space around the coral — Rhodactis can grow large and may expand to several inches across.
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Avoid proximity to aggressive LPS corals or stinging species.
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Excellent for shaded aquascape zones or low-light corners of mixed reef systems.
Tank Mates
Reef safe. Compatible with:
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Peaceful reef fish (wrasses, gobies, tangs, blennies, clownfish, 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 stinging corals (e.g., Euphyllia, Galaxea, Hydnophora)
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Butterflyfish or angelfish that may nip at soft tissue
Aggression
Moderate. While Rhodactis does not have long sweeper tentacles, it can release mild toxins (allelopathy) and overgrow neighbouring corals. Maintain sufficient spacing to prevent competition or contact.
Experience Level
Beginner. The Red Bullseye Mushroom Coral is hardy, adaptable, and forgiving — suitable for aquarists of all skill levels. It thrives in a wide range of water conditions and makes an excellent choice for both nano and large reef aquariums.
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 or larger systems
Stable water chemistry and moderate nutrients will help maintain the coral’s intense red hues and promote steady growth.
Reef Compatibility
Fully reef safe. The Red Bullseye Rock Mushroom Coral is a vibrant, low-maintenance coral that thrives in shaded environments where many other species struggle. Its bright colouration and unique texture make it a standout feature in any soft or mixed reef aquarium.
Interesting Fact
Rhodactis mushrooms can inflate or fold their oral discs to manipulate water flow and light exposure — a behaviour that also helps them capture drifting food particles from the surrounding water.
