Mushroom Coral
Pleuractis gravis
A free-living solitary coral that sits on the sand like a living frisbee.
About
Mushroom coral (Pleuractis gravis) is one of those deceptively simple-looking animals that rewards a closer look. Found across tropical reef systems of the Western Central Pacific, this species is a free-living solitary coral, meaning it doesn't attach permanently to rock the way most reef-building corals do. Instead, adults rest loosely on sandy or rubble substrates at the reef base, and can even right themselves if flipped upside down. A neat trick that sets free-living fungiids apart from most other stony corals. The disc-shaped skeleton is covered in radiating septa that give it a ribbed, almost geometric appearance, and the living tissue can look fleshy and textured when the polyp is fully extended. In the aquarium, this coral appreciates a soft sandy spot to rest on rather than being placed directly on rockwork. It does best with moderate lighting and gentle flow. Too much current can stress the tissue and prevent the polyp from opening properly. Despite being a stony coral, it's considered a forgiving choice for reef keepers who are newer to LPS care, as long as basic water quality is maintained and it's given room on the sandbed to settle in.
Similar species
Other coral you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Mushroom Coral
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- What water parameters does the Mushroom Coral need?
- The Mushroom Coral does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 8–8.4.
- Is the Mushroom Coral reef safe?
- The Mushroom Coral is generally considered reef safe.