Mycedium WWC Space Invader Chalice (15.12.2024) 4cm

Mycedium, also known as "Brain Coral," is a type of hard coral that belongs to the family Faviidae. It is a popular choice among marine aquarium enthusiasts due to its distinctive appearance and relatively easy care requirements. Here is a description of Mycedium coral and information on its cultivation in an aquarium:

Description of Mycedium Coral:

1. Appearance:

   • Mycedium coral typically forms large, round or dome-shaped colonies with a convoluted or brain-like surface texture.

   • The surface of Mycedium colonies can have various patterns, including ridges and valleys that resemble a brain's appearance.

   • This coral species comes in a range of colors, including shades of brown, green, blue, purple, and pink.

2. Size:

   • Individual Mycedium colonies can vary in size, but they often reach several inches to several feet in diameter.

Cultivation of Mycedium Coral in an Aquarium:

1. Lighting:

   • Provide moderate to bright lighting in the aquarium. LED lights or T5 lamps with moderate intensity are typically used for Mycedium cultivation.

2. Water Flow:

   • Mycedium prefers moderate water flow. Ensure there is gentle water movement around the coral, avoiding strong currents that may damage its delicate tissue.

3. Salinity Level:

   • Maintain a stable salinity level in the aquarium, typically around 1.025.

4. Feeding:

   • Mycedium is primarily a photosynthetic coral, obtaining nutrients through photosynthesis. However, it can also capture small planktonic organisms from the water. While supplementary feeding is not usually necessary, you can provide small-sized zooplankton occasionally.

5. Cleaning and Maintenance:

   • Regularly remove detritus and leftover food to maintain water quality in the aquarium.

   • Monitor the health of Mycedium and watch for any changes, such as polyp retraction or signs of stress.

Cultivating Mycedium coral in an aquarium is considered relatively straightforward, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. It adds diversity and a unique aesthetic to a marine aquarium when provided with the appropriate conditions and care.

Benefits of Buying Corals from Aquarium Cultivation:

Aquarium coral cultivation has become increasingly popular in the world of aquarium enthusiasts for several important reasons. Here are some advantages of purchasing corals from aquarium cultivation:

1. Protection of Natural Coral Reefs:

   • One of the primary benefits is that corals cultivated in aquariums are not harvested from wild coral reefs. This means that you are not contributing to the destruction of natural marine ecosystems.

2. Sustainable Aquaculture:

   • By buying corals from cultivation, you support sustainable aquaculture, which is more environmentally friendly than harvesting corals from wild reefs. This contributes to the preservation of marine biodiversity.

3. Greater Availability and Variety:

   • Aquarium cultivators often offer a wider range of coral species and varieties, allowing aquarium enthusiasts to create more diverse and interesting ecosystems in their tanks.

4. Healthier and Less Prone to Disease:

   • Corals from cultivation are typically healthier and less susceptible to diseases compared to those harvested from wild reefs. Aquarium cultivators often conduct regular testing and care for their corals, preventing diseases.

5. Proper Cultivation Conditions:

   • Coral cultivators control and maintain stable water conditions, ensuring optimal lighting, water flow, and nutrient levels. This promotes healthy growth and vibrant colors in corals.

6. Support for Enthusiasts:

   • Aquarium cultivators often offer support and advice, which can be particularly helpful for novice aquarists. You can gain valuable insights into coral care and cultivation from experienced cultivators.

7. Safe and Legal Alternative:

   • When you purchase corals from aquarium cultivation, you avoid potentially illegal trade in wild corals, which can lead to the degradation of natural coral reefs.

8. Supporting Scientific Innovation:

   • Aquarium cultivators often engage in research related to coral conservation and reef restoration. By buying from them, you also support these innovative scientific efforts.

Buying corals from aquarium cultivation is a sustainable and ethical way to own beautiful corals in your aquarium. It is also a means of engaging in the protection of marine nature and preserving wild coral reefs for future generations.