Chilli Coral

The Chilli Coral is unsurpassed in popularity among soft coral aficionados thanks to its exotic, other-worldly beauty. Fiery red colouration reminiscent of sun-dried chilli peppers packs a visual punch while its elegant arboreal features impart fluid, organic architecture characteristic of soft corals. The visually-stunning Chilli Coral boasts equally colourful alternate common names including Strawberry Coral, Chilli Cactus Coral, Red Chilli Coral, Chilli Sponge, Red Finger Soft Coral and Devil's Hand.

The Chilli Coral is a non-photosynthetic soft coral. While hardy and relatively easy to care for, the Chilli Coral has very specific needs that require proper attention for it to thrive. An established reef aquarium aquascaped with ample live rock overhangs and ledges provides an ideal environment. The Chilli Coral requires low lighting levels combined with medium to strong indirect water movement. Place the Chilli Coral underneath live rock overhangs and out of direct bright light to prevent damaging stress. The Chilli Coral will not usually fully open in direct water current. Water flow provided by a powerhead or wavemaker directed at the glass or nearby rock is ideal. Though peaceful, the Chilli Coral (and other soft corals) should be given ample space between neighbouring corals or anemones to accommodate for growth and potential coral aggression.

Similar to other non-photosynthetic soft corals the Chilli Coral obtains nutrients through active filter feeding. The Chilli Coral does not contain symbiotic algae to rely on for food. Therefore, the diet of the Chilli Coral must include live or frozen rotifers, baby brine shrimp, prawn eggs, and micro-plankton or foods designed for filter feeding invertebrates. For continued good health, supplement with strontium, iodine, and trace elements.

The Chilli Coral is normally shipped while attached to a small piece of live rock or coral rubble.