For many years, the needs and requirements of many types of corals were largely unknown or commonly misunderstood. This resulted in these intriguing life forms being virtually impossible to maintain in aquariums for any prolonged periods of time. However, more recent years have included significant advancements in understandings of corals. We are now able to take advantage of the knowledge gained through relatively recent research, as well as benefit from what hobby saltwater aquarists of yesteryear learned through their experiences.
A popular tank variety of coral is Actonodiscus, or Mushroom. They do not adapt well to neither bright lighting nor heavy currents, so they are often quite well suited for the typical saltwater aquarium. As a matter of fact, their optimum conditions include both fluorescent lighting as well as minimal water movement.
It should be taken into consideration, however, that the Mushroom coral should not be placed next to certain other types of invertebrates and corals. The Mushroom may have detrimental effects on such life forms, and the relevant issues should be thoroughly researched prior to reaching a conclusion about adding the Mushroom to our tank.
Some of the most easily maintained corals and therefore most commonly found in home aquariums include members of what is known as the Polyp family. These include Star, Green Star, and Daisy Polyps. They adapt well to both intense and low level lighting, as well as thrive in a variety of types of currents. These interesting life forms are sensitive, however, to iodine and aluminum oxide, both of which are often found in certain phosphate-removing sponges. The Polyp family is very much considered, however, to be very good starter corals.
Another popular member of the Polyp family is a coral known as Palythoa, more commonly referred to as Sea Mat or Button Polyps, due to its fast growth and appearance. Palythoa has a high reproductive rate and looks like many small circles, or buttons, placed beside one another.
Cladiella, more commonly known as Finger Leather or Colt, are among the most beautiful and adaptable corals that we might place in our aquariums. This colorful and attractive coral responds well to wide ranges of lighting conditions and water currents. Interestingly and seemingly almost miraculously appropriately, however, Cladiella grows optimally in moderate light and current.
A consideration of corals that are appropriate for aquariums would not be complete without the mention of Lobophyllia and Symphyllia. These include several specific types of corals and a wide variety of names of which they are more commonly known. Due to their diverse range of appearances and native locations, more popularly known names include Large Flower Coral and Pacific Cactus Coral, among others.
These corals are quite hardy and adaptable, and therefore make excellent starter choices. Some specific varieties do of course have certain sensitivities and growth tendencies that are not conducive to sharing a tank with certain other corals. However and generally speaking, Lobophyllia and Symphyllia are very adaptable, easy to care for, and are very good starter corals.
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