Delicate coral care

[ironclad_9]

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I'm having an issue with my corals, some are only half open, others are fully open, and some aren't opening at all. My parameters are good, so I'm wondering if it's my lighting that's the problem?

[zenoxa]

How long have you had those corals for ironclad_9? Sometimes, it just takes a bit of time for them to adjust to their new surroundings, like different lighting and flow patterns. I'm guessing you've already checked that out, but I thought I'd mention it.

That sun coral in the picture doesn't need light, but regular feeding is a must. As for the zoanthids, have you checked them for any pests? Those little critters can cause the polyps to close up like that.

What are your water parameters, by the way? I've got some info on sun corals and zoanthids if you're interested - this link has some good info on sun corals, and this one's got some general info on zoanthids.

[ironclad_9]

My API test kit says my pH is 8.2-8.4, ammonia and nitrite are 0, and nitrate is 0. I don't have test kits for alk, cal, etc. Thanks for the info on the sun coral, I wasn't sure since it came in a pack. The corals have been in there for about 3 weeks. My monti, which has been in there for months, is actually the one showing growth.

[ironclad_9]

Just moved the corals out of the light and already one is opening up, one issue down lol.

[tiderunner]

You've got another issue on your hands - feeding those individual Tubastrea heads. They're gonna need some meaty foods like PE Mysis, and they usually open up at night. But if you wanna try to get 'em to open during the day, you can use a coke bottle over 'em with some food inside to get 'em excited, then gradually feed 'em with the lights on over time.

[ironclad_9]

Just fed them PE Mysis, each head got some. Moved them out of the light too, hoping to see some improvement now.

[rileyon]

Your sun coral looks to be in great shape, should do just fine. It's not picky about light, but keeping it in the dark's probably best since it's prone to algae growth on the skeleton. You might want to check out the NPS forum for some good tips on keeping it.

Those zoas seem like they're in a shaded spot, maybe. They need some decent light, not too high-powered. Algae touching the polyps can keep them closed up, though I'm not sure if that's the issue from the pics.