How to care for Mycedium in a Reef Tank

Mycedium, also known as Mycedium elephantotus, is a type of LPS Coral that is popular among reef tank enthusiasts. It is native to the Indo-Pacific region and is known for its bright, vibrant colors and unique, branching growth pattern. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about caring for coral mycedium in your home reef tank.

Lighting Requirements:

Mycedium requires moderate to high lighting conditions in order to thrive. This means that you will need to invest in high-quality lighting equipment for your reef tank. Ideally, you should use metal halide or LED lights with a color temperature of around 10,000K to 20,000K. Be sure to place the lights close enough to the coral mycedium so that it receives the required amount of light. However, avoid placing the lights too close to the coral, as this can cause it to bleach or become damaged.

Water Flow Requirements:

Mycedium requires moderate to high water flow in order to maintain its health and growth. You can achieve this by using powerheads or other water circulation devices in your reef tank. Be sure to position these devices so that they create a gentle but consistent flow of water around the coral mycedium. This will help to prevent debris from settling on the coral and will also help to transport nutrients to the coral.

Water Quality Requirements:

Mycedium is sensitive to changes in water quality, so it is important to maintain a stable and healthy environment in your reef tank. This means that you will need to test the water regularly for parameters such as pH, salinity, nitrate, and phosphate levels. You should aim to keep the pH level between 8.1 and 8.4, the salinity between 1.023 and 1.025, and the nitrate and phosphate levels as low as possible.

Feeding Requirements:

Mycedium is a photosynthetic coral, which means that it obtains most of its nutrients from photosynthesis. However, it also benefits from regular feedings of small planktonic organisms such as rotifers, copepods, and phytoplankton. You can add these organisms to your reef tank using a pipette or syringe. Alternatively, you can purchase commercial coral food that contains a mixture of these organisms.

Propagation:

Mycedium can be propagated through fragmentation, which involves cutting a small piece of the coral and allowing it to attach to a new substrate. To do this, you will need to use a sharp scalpel or razor blade to carefully cut the coral mycedium. Be sure to cut at an angle and avoid damaging the tissue. Once you have a small piece of coral, you can attach it to a new substrate using cyanoacrylate glue or another coral glue.

In conclusion, Mycedium is a beautiful and unique coral that can make a great addition to your home reef tank. By following the care tips outlined in this article, you can help to ensure that your coral mycedium remains healthy and vibrant. Remember to maintain stable water quality, provide adequate lighting and water flow, and feed the coral regularly to encourage growth and reproduction.