Scolymia (EA#193)

Scolymia Coral (Scolymia spp.)

• Common Names: Scoly, Doughnut Coral, Disc Coral
• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Colour Form: Red, Orange, Green, Multicoloured, Metallic Variants
• Diet: Photosynthetic and Carnivorous
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Water Conditions: 24-27°C, dKH 6-10, pH 7.8-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
• Max Size: Up to 12 cm in diameter
• Family: Lobophylliidae

Overview
The Scolymia Coral, affectionately known as "Scoly," is a large polyp stony (LPS) coral prized for its vivid colours and circular, doughnut-like appearance. Found in the lagoons and reef slopes of the Indo-Pacific, Scoly corals are a favourite among aquarists for their striking hues and fleshy texture. These corals are hardy and relatively simple to care for, making them a stunning addition to any reef tank.
Recently, Monsoon Aquatics, an Australian coral farm, has achieved success in spawning Scolymia corals in captivity. This marks a significant milestone in sustainable reefkeeping, providing aquarists with access to captive-bred Scoly corals that are environmentally friendly and acclimatised to aquarium life.
Behaviour and Habitat
Scoly corals are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them an excellent choice for mixed reef aquariums. They do not possess long sweeper tentacles but inflate their tissues during the day to display their vibrant colours. Found resting on sandy or rubble substrates in the wild, they thrive in stable, nutrient-rich environments.
Tank Requirements

• Lighting: Moderate lighting, such as LED or T5 fixtures. Avoid excessive intensity, which can lead to bleaching.
• Water Flow: Low to moderate, as strong currents can damage their delicate tissues.
• Placement: Best placed on a sandy substrate or in rock crevices with smooth edges to avoid tissue damage.

Diet
While Scoly corals host symbiotic zooxanthellae for photosynthesis, they benefit from regular feedings to supplement their energy needs.

• Food Types:
• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• Powdered or liquid coral food
• Finely chopped seafood
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1-2 times per week, ideally during the evening when their feeding tentacles are extended.

Reef Compatibility
Scoly corals are reef-safe and will not harm other corals or invertebrates. Ensure enough space around them to avoid physical contact with neighbouring corals, which could result in tissue damage.
Compatibility
Scoly corals are compatible with peaceful tank mates, such as:

• Gobies
• Blennies
• Clownfish
• Reef-safe invertebrates like cleaner shrimp and snails
• Avoid keeping them with aggressive or coral-picking fish like puffers, triggers, or large angelfish.

Care Tips

• Regularly monitor and maintain stable calcium (380-450 ppm), magnesium (1250-1350 ppm), and alkalinity (6-10 dKH) levels.
• Avoid placing them in direct, high-intensity water flow or strong lighting.
• Periodically clean the coral to remove detritus or debris.
• Protect them from physical damage caused by falling rocks or overzealous tank mates.

Final Thoughts
Scoly corals are among the most visually stunning additions to any reef aquarium. With their radiant colours and fleshy, circular shape, they serve as a striking centrepiece while being relatively straightforward to care for.
The availability of captive-spawned Scolymia corals from Monsoon Aquatics ensures that aquarists can enjoy these stunning corals with a reduced environmental impact. A well-maintained Scoly coral will reward aquarists with vibrant beauty and longevity in their underwater ecosystem.
If you're looking to enhance your tank further, browse our collection of LPS Corals, SPS Corals, or Soft Corals.