Hollywood Stunner Chalice

The Hollywood Stunner Chalice Coral (Echinophyllia aspera), often simply referred to as "Hollywood Chalice," is a popular and beautiful coral species within the aquarium hobby. As with any coral species, proper care is essential to ensure its health and growth in a home aquarium. Here are some care guidelines for the Hollywood Stunner Chalice Coral:

1. Lighting:

Chalice corals, including the Hollywood Stunner, require moderate to high lighting conditions. LED lights with customizable intensity and spectrum settings are commonly used in reef aquariums. Ensure that the coral receives appropriate light intensity to promote its growth and coloration.

2. Water Flow:

Moderate water flow is suitable for Hollywood Stunner Chalice Corals. Providing gentle to moderate water movement helps prevent debris buildup and ensures that the coral's tissue is not damaged by excessive flow.

3. Water Parameters:

Maintain stable and appropriate water parameters for the best coral health:

• Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
• Salinity: 1.025 specific gravity
• pH: 8.0-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
• Calcium: 400-450 ppm
• Magnesium: 1200-1350 ppm
• Nitrate and Phosphate: Low levels (regular testing and adjustments may be necessary)

4. Placement:

Find a suitable spot in your aquarium where the Hollywood Stunner Chalice Coral can receive adequate lighting and water flow. Make sure there is enough space between the coral and other neighboring corals to prevent any aggressive interactions.

5. Feeding:

Chalice corals are photosynthetic, which means they obtain a significant portion of their energy from light through a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae. However, they also benefit from supplemental feeding. Offer them small pieces of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or finely chopped seafood. Feed them a few times a week to enhance their growth and coloration.

6. Water Quality:

Regular water changes are important to maintain water quality. Aim for a weekly water change of about 10-20% to replenish essential trace elements and maintain stable water parameters.

7. Coral Dip:

When introducing new coral specimens to your aquarium, it's a good practice to dip them in a coral dip solution to help remove any potential pests or unwanted hitchhikers.

8. Monitoring:

Regularly observe the coral's appearance and behavior. Keep an eye out for signs of stress, such as receding tissue, color loss, or tissue damage. These could indicate issues with lighting, water quality, or other factors.

9. Patience:

Corals, including the Hollywood Stunner Chalice Coral, can take time to acclimate and grow in a new environment. Be patient and allow the coral to adjust before expecting significant growth and color enhancement.

Remember that every aquarium is unique, so closely monitoring your coral and making adjustments based on its specific needs is crucial for its well-being. If you're new to keeping corals, consider seeking advice from experienced hobbyists or local aquarium stores to ensure the best care for your Hollywood Stunner Chalice Coral.