The Long Tentacle Plate Coral, a large polyp stony (LPS) coral, is also known as a Heliofungia Plate, Mushroom, or Disk Coral. The genus name, Heliofungia, comes from the Latin words helios (sun) and fungus (mushroom), reflecting the shape of its calcareous skeleton. When its long purple tentacles with greenish-gold tips are fully extended, it resembles an anemone.

This is a solitary, aggressive coral that can harm other corals with its long tentacles if they come into contact. When placed in the aquarium, it is important to consider that it may inflate with water, expanding to twice its normal size, with sweeper tentacles extending far beyond its base. It thrives best at the bottom of the reef aquarium, ideally resting on fine sandy substrate. The Long Tentacle Plate Coral is easy to care for, making it an ideal choice for beginner reef keepers. It requires moderate lighting and moderate water movement to maintain its health. Regular addition of calcium, strontium, and other trace elements is also necessary.

It should be fed micro-plankton or brine shrimp.

Approximate Purchase Size: Medium: 2" to 3-1/4"; Large: 3-1/2" to 5-1/4"