Rainbow Dynamite Chalice Coral Frag

Rainbow Dynamite Chalice Coral Frag

Available for Local Pickup in store

 

Scientific Name: Echinophyllia sp.
Common Name: Rainbow Dynamite Chalice, Chalice Coral

 

Appearance

Rainbow Dynamite Chalice is a stunning LPS coral prized for its bright, vivid coloration. The coral displays a “rainbow” array of colors, often including neon greens, blues, purples, pinks, or oranges across its fleshy tissue. The polyps are embedded in ridged plates or undulating surfaces, giving it a dramatic, textured appearance. The color intensity can vary depending on lighting and water conditions, with brighter colors emerging under optimal parameters.

Chalice corals often have contrasting centers or mouths that add to the “dynamite” effect, making them a centerpiece in reef tanks.

 

Size

• Frag size: Usually sold as a small piece, ~2–4 cm wide.

• Colony size: Can grow slowly to several inches across, spreading horizontally rather than vertically.

• Growth rate: Slow to moderate. Chalices are generally slower growers compared to other LPS but can expand steadily under proper care.

 

Temperament & Reef Compatibility

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive. Chalice corals have long sweeper tentacles that extend at night, capable of stinging nearby corals.

• Reef Safe: Yes, with adequate spacing. Avoid placing too close to delicate or slow-growing neighbors.

• Spacing Recommendation: Maintain at least 2–4 inches of clearance from other LPS or SPS corals.

 

Lighting Requirements

• Moderate to low light is preferred.

• LED, T5, or metal halide lighting works well.

• Intense light can bleach tissue, while too little may reduce growth or coloration.

• Position gradually if moving to a different lighting zone.

 

Flow Requirements

• Moderate water flow is ideal.

• Flow should be indirect to gently move detritus away from polyps.

• Avoid high, direct flow that can damage the delicate tissue or inhibit polyp extension.

 

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

• Nitrate: <10 ppm

• Phosphate: <0.03 ppm

Stable water chemistry is key for maintaining vibrant colors and healthy growth.

 

Feeding & Nutrition

• Photosynthetic: Contains zooxanthellae that provide the majority of its nutrition.

• Supplemental Feeding: Benefits from occasional target feeding:

  • Mysis shrimp

  • Brine shrimp

  • LPS powders or liquid foods

  • Finely minced seafood

• Feeding 1–2 times per week improves polyp expansion, tissue growth, and coloration.

 

Placement in Aquarium

• Best placed on horizontal surfaces, mid to lower areas of the tank.

• Ensure the coral is stable and cannot slide or fall onto other corals.

• Maintain spacing to prevent sweeper tentacle damage to neighbors.

 

Growth & Propagation

• Growth rate: Slow to moderate; horizontal encrustation is typical.

• Propagation: Fragging is possible using a bone cutter or diamond saw to cut a section.

• Frags heal within a few weeks and begin encrusting their new base.

 

Behavior & Observations

• Polyps usually extend at night; daytime retraction is normal.

• Signs of stress include tissue recession, discoloration, or lack of polyp extension.

• Chalices are hardy LPS corals but sensitive to sudden parameter changes or strong flow.

 

Maintenance Tips

• Monitor and maintain stable water parameters.

• Remove detritus that collects in coral tissue or on surfaces.

• Provide occasional feeding to support coloration and growth.

• Quarantine new frags before introducing them to the display tank.

 

Summary:
Rainbow Dynamite Chalice is a visually striking LPS coral with vivid “rainbow” colors and textured encrusting plates. Semi-aggressive, it requires moderate light, moderate flow, and occasional feeding for optimal growth and vibrant coloration. Perfect as a centerpiece or highlight in mixed LPS setups.

 

Fun Facts:

• Chalice corals can expand horizontally across rockwork over time, creating colorful “carpets.”

• Their long sweeper tentacles make them fascinating at night when they actively defend territory.

• Color intensity often increases with proper feeding and moderate lighting, making them a favorite for reef aquascaping and frag displays.