As more and more people set up saltwater
aquariums, more are also adding coral to the décor. As with any living thing, it
is best to understand the creature and how to care for it properly before
bringing it home. Coral is no different as it is a live animal that you will be
adding to your tank. The care and maintenance of coral should be well understood
before making the final decision to add this beautiful animal to your aquarium.
The most common species of coral that are used in aquariums are called bubble
coral. Due to the fact that they are so common, we will use this species as a
guideline. Within the bubble coral family, there are three subspecies. They are
simple bubble coral, pearl bubble coral and grape bubble coral. They are all
cared for in the same way, so they will be referred to as bubble coral
throughout the rest of the article.
One of the most important things to know about your coral is how to space them
when you add them to the tank. Bubble coral have long tentacles which are armed
with stinging cells. Mostly, they remain retracted until nightfall, when they
are extended to aid in feeding habits. These tentacles will sting neighbouring
coral if they are close enough. Be aware of this as you position the coral in
your tank and try to keep coral pieces at least 6 inches away from others.
As your consider the placement. Also take into consideration the available
lighting where they are placed. If you have additional light sources aside from
the tube in the hood, bubble coral should do well anywhere in the tank. If you
are using the included florescent tubes for lighting, it may be better to place
the coral closer to the surface. This species of coral prefers low movement of
the water. Be sure not to place it in any direct current. Doing so will cause
the coral's vesicles to remain closed. This will eventually result in death.
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When you have the coral situated in the aquarium,
you must remember it is a living animal and must eat just as your fish do. For
bubble coral, feed it shrimp or small pieces of clam one to two times a week.
Place the food morsels on the polyp of the coral. Any food that is trapped by
the tentacles or among vesicles, will be eaten almost immediately. It is
important not to overfeed the coral or your fish. Algae is a pest that will
cause damage or even death of the coral. Keep the algae as controlled as
possible by scheduled and routine cleaning of your aquarium. Bubble coral may
also get flat worms. These worms are easily spotted and usually appear as
circular spots on the coral's vesicles. They are not a cause for alarm and
usually do little damage if any. However, if you notice a significant amount or
a large population of these worms, you will have to take action as they could
cause death.
Coral is a wonderful addition to any aquarium. Many people are uninformed as to
how to care for this animal. It is advised that you learn all you can about the
animal, how it functions and lives before adding it to the aquarium. Once you
have the knowledge and can properly care for it, coral will help to create a
studding underwater paradise.
