The Mycedium Coral is a large polyp stony (LPS) coral, and is often referred to as the Green Eyed Cup, Plate, or Peacock Coral. The most commonly imported species is Mycedium elephantotus, dubbed “Elephant Nose,” from the Fiji Islands. A blue to green base color with bright green polyps is the standard color variety available. Occasionally, other color morphs are available including grays, browns, purples, and pinks. The genus name combines the two Greek words mykes (mushroom tops) and idion (diminutive) giving a liberal translation of small bumps.

The diameter of each individual polyp can range from less than 1/8th of an inch in newly-formed colonies, up to a 1/2 inch in mature colonies that have reached sizes exceeding 6 feet. The polyp’s round shape is surrounded by a raised skeleton wall giving the polyps their bump-like appearance. The morphology of Mycedium as a colony adapts quickly to any niche in which it finds itself. Its peaceful nature, combined with adaptability, allows it grow into a number of different shapes. One of the more common forms is a flat fan shape. The sweeper tentacles and polyps are normally only extended at night.

A medium to strong water flow across the surface of the coral is recommended in order to carry food to the polyps. In the home aquarium, the Elephant Nose Coral will do best if attached to live rock at a midpoint in the aquarium. As with all hard corals, calcium and other trace element supplements added to the water are required for optimal aquarium conditions.

Supplemental target feeding of brine shrimp once a week will also foster increased growth.

The Seriatopora Bird’s Nest Coral is also referred to as a Needle, Finger, or Brush Coral. The genus name, Seriatopora, comes from the Latin Seriatus (arranged in a series) and porus (pore) because its calcium skeleton is composed of a series of pores making up the whole structure. It is a small polyp stony (SPS) coral with very delicate, thin branches with needle-like tips that differentiate it from its closest relative, the Staghorn Corals that have much thicker branches. It is found in a variety of color forms with pink being the most common. It will change colors in the reef aquarium growing darker with age. Aquacultured specimens are available.

The Seriatopora Bird’s Nest Coral needs a high light level and a medium water current within the aquarium to maintain its bright colors. For continued good health, it will also require the addition of calcium, strontium, and other trace elements to the water.

While it does not require additional food to maintain its health in the reef aquarium, it will feed on micro-plankton and foods designed for filter feeding invertebrates. Many scientists and hobbyists have recently cultured young Bird’s Nest Corals by fragmenting a mother colony and raising the small branches in impeccable water conditions under intense lighting.