Large Flower Coral

About

Large flower coral (Mussa angulosa) is one of the more visually substantial stony corals coming out of the Western Atlantic, found across the Gulf of Mexico and throughout the Caribbean Sea. In the wild it grows across a wide range of reef environments, from shallow water almost to the surface down to around 55 meters, which speaks to its adaptability. Colonies take on flat to domed shapes and can develop into configurations where multiple centers share short, ridge-like valleys. Giving mature specimens a brain-coral quality in some growth forms. The septa carry tall, sharp teeth, and when polyps are retracted the tissue is notably thick and fleshy, giving the coral a hefty, sculpted look. Coloration tends to run toward grey, purple, or green, sometimes with contrasting oral discs that become visible when polyps extend. For a large-polyp stony coral, Mussa angulosa is considered a reasonable choice for hobbyists still building experience with LPS corals. It does not demand intense light or strong water movement, making it easier to place in a typical reef system than many of its relatives. It is reef safe and generally not aggressive toward other corals at moderate distances, though like most large-polyp stonies it can extend sweeper tentacles when feeding.