Help with fox coral

[Wingnutt021]

Brought it home from the LFS and it was very happy for a few weeks. Now, all of a sudden its not opening up.

Everything else is happy.

Anyone have experience with this beauty?

 

[Anonymous]

Yes. I assume you are talking about Nemenzophyllia turbida. I'm not sure why it is commonly called fox coral.

Low low light and low water motion. If you have a cave or ledge, stick it under it. Direct metal halide lighting of any wattage is almost certainly too much light.

How are your Ca/Alk numbers?

 

[Wingnutt021]

All water parimeters are OK...

I only have a 50/50 compact flouresent bulb so I don't think too much lighting is an issue. I have it placed at about half depth of a ten gallon. The problem might be the water flow. Between the outflow from the filter, and the little powerhead I have, its current home may be too turbulent for it.

I'll try moving it to lower, calmer waters to see how things work out.

 

[Anonymous]

In addition to the above, make sure nothing can sting it, also look out for hermits, etc bothering it. IME, they dislike being touched and will sulk if repeatedly bothered.

 

[Wingnutt021]

Today I moved the rock they're on down into an area of relatively low current.

I see very little improvement, but something is better than nothing I guess.

 

[Wingnutt021]

Ok, I Moved the piece into the area with the lowest water movement, and furthest away from the light source. Still nothing! Here are some pictures...

I wish I had a before picture, because these things really opened up and were gorgeous...

 

[Wingnutt021]

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