Plate Coral
Cycloseris densicolumellus
Also known as: Fungia, mushroom coral, Mushroom Coral
A free-living plate coral that slowly wanders the sandy bottom on its own.
About
Fungia (Cycloseris densicolumellus) is a solitary, free-living stony coral native to the sandy and rubble-strewn floors of the Indo-Pacific. Unlike most hard corals that cement themselves permanently to rock, this species spends its life unattached, sitting loose on the substrate and capable of slow, independent movement. A trait that still surprises hobbyists who find their coral has relocated overnight. The skeleton forms a round to slightly oval disc radiating fine septa outward from a central mouth, giving it that classic plate or mushroom shape the genus is known for. Colors in the aquarium tend toward browns, tans, and greens, though the tissue has a pleasing texture and translucency under good lighting. In the home reef, Cycloseris densicolumellus is considered a reasonable choice for newer coral keepers, tolerating moderate light and preferring lower flow conditions that won't tumble it around the tank. Place it directly on a sandy bottom or fine rubble rather than mounting it on rock. This matches its natural environment and lets it behave normally. Give it enough personal space, as it can extend sweeper tentacles at night. Feed it small meaty foods occasionally to help it thrive.
Similar species
Other coral you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Plate Coral
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Plate Coral aggressive?
- The Plate Coral is generally peaceful and suits a community tank with similarly calm tankmates.
- What does the Plate Coral eat?
- The Plate Coral is a carnivore. It needs a meaty, protein-rich diet of frozen or live foods.
- Is the Plate Coral reef safe?
- The Plate Coral is generally considered reef safe.