Symphyllia (Rainbow)

• Indo-Pacific
• Moderate to High Care Level
• For Experienced Hobbyists
• Moderate Placement in Reef Tank

Symphyllia, commonly known as Brain Coral, is a visually captivating and intricate species native to the Indo-Pacific region. Recognized for its large, fleshy structure that resembles a brain with its maze-like folds, this coral can come in a range of colors, including green, blue, brown, and red. When well-maintained, Symphyllia creates a striking focal point in the reef tank, with its polyps extending outward to form an impressive display.

Symphyllia is generally suitable for experienced aquarists due to its sensitivity to water quality and environmental factors. While it is a hardy coral, it requires specific care to thrive in an aquarium environment.

Placement in the Tank

Symphyllia does best in moderate to low lighting. It is important to avoid direct, intense lighting, as it can stress the coral and cause bleaching. A lighting intensity of around 100-200 PAR is ideal. Placing it in the lower to middle areas of the aquarium, where indirect light is available, simulates its natural environment.

For water flow, Symphyllia prefers moderate water movement. Excessive water flow can lead to retraction of its polyps or physical damage, while stagnant water can limit its feeding capabilities. It thrives with a water flow rate of around 10-20 tank volumes per hour.

Water Parameters

Maintaining precise and stable water parameters is essential for Symphyllia. Here’s the recommended range for optimal health:

• Temperature: 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F). Keeping it at a consistent 26°C (79°F) is ideal. Temperature fluctuations outside this range can cause stress and hinder coral growth.
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025 specific gravity (SG), with 1.024 being ideal for stability.
• pH: 8.0 to 8.4, with an ideal pH of 8.2 for better calcium uptake.
• Alkalinity (dKH): 8-12 dKH, with 9-10 dKH being optimal for coral growth and skeletal development.
• Calcium: 400-450 ppm. Calcium is crucial for skeletal formation, and maintaining levels within this range ensures healthy growth.
• Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm. Magnesium helps stabilize calcium levels and supports proper coral development.
• Nitrate: Less than 5 ppm. High nitrate levels can reduce coral health and promote the growth of unwanted algae.
• Phosphate: Below 0.03 ppm. Keeping phosphate levels low is important to prevent algae blooms and competition for nutrients.

Feeding

Symphyllia is a filter feeder, relying on plankton and other particulate matter for nutrition. While it benefits from the symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae (photosynthetic algae), it requires supplemental feeding in aquariums that lack natural plankton.

Feed Symphyllia with liquid coral foods, phytoplankton, or finely chopped meaty foods such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp. Aim to feed once or twice a week, providing small portions to avoid water quality degradation. Overfeeding can result in nutrient spikes and excess waste, which may harm the coral.

Maintenance and Care

Proper care for Symphyllia requires regular monitoring of water quality and routine maintenance:

• Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (10-15% weekly) to maintain stable conditions and prevent the buildup of harmful substances in the water.
• Water Parameter Monitoring: Regularly check critical water parameters such as temperature, pH, calcium, and nitrate levels to ensure the coral is living in optimal conditions.
• Pruning: Symphyllia does not require frequent pruning, but it may need occasional attention if it becomes too large and crowds other corals. Handle it gently to avoid damage to its delicate tissue.
• Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests such as flatworms, nudibranchs, and aiptasia, which can damage the coral. If pests are detected, take immediate action to treat and remove them.

Compatibility

Symphyllia is a peaceful coral but can be territorial. It should be placed away from aggressive corals, such as those with long stinging tentacles (e.g., some SPS or LPS species), to avoid damaging its tissue.

It’s best housed with other soft corals or non-aggressive LPS corals, ensuring that it has enough space to grow and thrive. Be mindful of its need for space, as it may compete for light or space with nearby corals if placed too closely.

Conclusion

Symphyllia is an extraordinary coral, known for its stunning, intricate appearance. With proper care, water parameters, and regular maintenance, it can thrive in an aquarium, becoming a centerpiece in your reef tank. Its moderate to high care level makes it better suited for experienced hobbyists who can provide the stable and controlled environment that Symphyllia requires.