Description
Spotted Rock Mushroom (Fungiidae Coral) (Discosoma sp.)
(Also known as Mushroom Coral, Disc Anemone, or Spotted Mushroom Coral)
Overview
The Spotted Rock Mushroom (Discosoma sp.) is a hardy and colourful soft coral (Corallimorpharian) often referred to as a “mushroom coral” due to its flattened, disc-like shape and central mouth. Its vibrant spotted patterning and rich hues — typically shades of red, blue, green, purple, or brown — make it a favourite for adding colour and texture to reef aquariums. Easy to care for and tolerant of a wide range of water conditions, Discosoma mushrooms are an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced reef aquarists. They are particularly popular for filling in rock crevices and shaded areas where many stony corals struggle to thrive.
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 and reef slope environments, where light is moderate and flow is gentle.
Feeding
The Spotted Rock Mushroom Coral is primarily photosynthetic, relying on zooxanthellae within its tissues. However, occasional feeding enhances growth and colour intensity. Feed 1–2 times per week with:
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Finely chopped seafood or mysis shrimp
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Marine snow or microplankton
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Coral food powders or amino acid supplements
Target feeding is optional but beneficial, especially in lower-light setups.
Lighting
Low to moderate lighting. Discosoma thrives under subdued, diffused light and may bleach if exposed to intense illumination.
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PAR range: 50–150 µmol/m²/s
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Ideal for shaded areas, lower rockwork, or overhangs.
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Blue-spectrum lighting enhances its fluorescent spotting and colouration.
Water Flow
Low to moderate flow. Gentle, indirect currents are ideal to promote gas exchange and prevent detritus buildup. Strong flow can cause the coral to retract or detach from the substrate.
Placement
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Place on lower rockwork or substrate, preferably in shaded or low-flow areas.
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Avoid placing directly near aggressive corals with long sweeper tentacles.
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Discosoma can attach to rock and spread by budding or tissue division, eventually forming attractive colonies.
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If overcrowding occurs, gently trim or isolate individual mushrooms to manage growth.
Tank Mates
Reef safe. Compatible with:
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Peaceful reef fish (clownfish, gobies, wrasses, tangs, etc.)
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Shrimp, snails, and small hermit crabs
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Other soft corals, zoanthids, and LPS species (with spacing)
Avoid:
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Aggressive stinging corals (e.g., Euphyllia, Galaxea, Hydnophora) nearby
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Butterflyfish or large angelfish that may nip at soft tissue
Aggression
Mildly aggressive. Discosoma can release toxins and overgrow nearby corals, outcompeting them for space. Maintain spacing and monitor growth to prevent encroachment.
Experience Level
Beginner. The Spotted Rock Mushroom Coral is extremely hardy and adaptable, ideal for new reef aquarists. It tolerates a broad range of lighting, flow, and nutrient levels while maintaining vibrant appearance and steady growth.
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
Reef Compatibility
Fully reef safe. The Spotted Rock Mushroom Coral is a vibrant, low-maintenance soft coral that thrives in shaded areas and adds contrast and depth to reef aquariums. Its ability to adapt and spread makes it ideal for aquascaping and filling in gaps between rock structures.
