Blastomussa merletti (frag)

Blastomussa merletti is a captivating large polyp stony (LPS) coral prized for its fleshy polyps and vibrant colours, making it a popular choice for marine aquarists seeking to add texture and interest to their reef tanks. This frag is cultured and grown under controlled conditions, ensuring a healthy specimen ready for aquarium life.

Lighting: Moderate lighting is recommended, such as T5 fluorescents or LED systems with adjustable intensity. Avoid placing under intense direct light to prevent bleaching.

Water Flow: Gentle to moderate water movement is ideal to ensure adequate nutrient delivery without causing tissue damage. Too strong a flow may cause the polyps to retract.

Placement: Position the frag on stable rockwork in the lower to middle sections of the aquarium. Provide sufficient space from neighbouring corals to prevent aggressive interactions, as Blastomussa merletti can extend sweeper tentacles.

Care Level: Suitable for intermediate hobbyists with some experience in maintaining LPS corals. Regular water quality monitoring and stable parameters are essential.

Diet: Primarily photosynthetic via symbiotic zooxanthellae but benefits from occasional feeding of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp or specialised coral foods to promote growth.

Reef Compatibility: Yes, with adequate spacing to avoid coral warfare.

Maintain stable water parameters with temperature around 24-26°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, and calcium levels between 400-450 ppm for optimal skeletal growth.