Description
Trachyphyllia, commonly known as the open brain coral, is a free-living coral species in the Merulinidae family. They are large polyp stony corals (LPS) characterized by a flabello-meandroid growth form, meaning they have distinct valley regions separated by walls, resembling an inverted brain. These corals are often brightly colored and found in inter-reef environments and on soft substrates around continental islands.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Appearance and Features:
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Shape: Trachyphyllia are free-living, meaning they can move around and are not anchored to rocks. They have a flabello-meandroid growth pattern, with distinct valleys separated by walls.
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Size: They are relatively small corals, typically not exceeding 20 cm in diameter.
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Color: Trachyphyllia come in a wide variety of colors, including yellow, brown, blue, green, and red.
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Tentacles: They have short tentacles that are often extended during feeding.
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Mouth: They have one to three separate mouths within their valleys.
Habitat and Distribution:
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Location: Trachyphyllia are found in inter-reef environments and on soft substrates around continental islands.
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Substrate: They prefer to rest on soft substrates like sandbeds.
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Water Conditions: They thrive in moderate to strong lighting and moderate water currents.
Care and Maintenance:
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Lighting:
They generally prefer moderate lighting (100-150 PAR), but can tolerate lower light conditions.
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Water Flow:
They do not like strong currents and should have moderate, indirect water flow.
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Feeding:
They are voracious feeders and can be supplemented with various foods like brine shrimp and mysis, according to Tidal Gardens.
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Placement:
They should be placed on the sand or substrate bed, allowing for proper movement and feeding.
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Aggression:
Trachyphyllia can be a bit aggressive and should be placed with ample space from other corals
