Mardi Gras Rhodactis Mushroom

About this coral

Mardi Gras Rhodactis Mushroom is a type of mushroom coral from the genus Rhodactis, sold in an aquarist-friendly “easy coral” format for reef tanks. In practice, it’s used as a hardy, photosynthetic coral that can add movement and texture to live rock; many keepers place it where gentle light reaches so it can thrive while remaining simpler to manage than many SPS species.

Features:

• Mushrooms are generally considered beginner-friendly corals with comparatively low requirements.
• Rhodactis mushroom corals rely largely on their symbiotic algae for energy (photosynthesis), supporting stable day-to-day growth in a reef environment.
• Helpful in reef scapes: the tissue expands and contracts and can create a soft, natural look on rock surfaces.
• Works best with calmer conditions; strong direct currents can stress delicate oral discs and tissue.
• Typically suited to mixed reefs where other inhabitants won’t repeatedly contact or nip the coral.
• Often adapts well to stable lighting and water chemistry once established on the substrate.

Specifications:

• Verified coral identity: Rhodactis mushroom coral (genus Rhodactis); “Mardi Gras” appears to be a named variety.
• Care level (general): Beginner-friendly / low to moderate requirements (group-level guidance for mushroom corals).
• Light (general): Low to moderate aquarium light (group-level guidance).
• Water flow (general): Gentle, indirect flow; avoid strong blasting currents (group-level guidance).
• Placement: On live rock or an aquascape spot where it can attach and receive consistent lighting.
• Diet: Mostly photosynthesis; benefits from reef feeding only as appropriate for the tank’s general biology (group-level guidance).
• Water temperature (typical reef range): About 72–78°F (22–26°C).
• Salinity (typical reef range): About 1.023–1.025 specific gravity.
• pH (typical reef range): About 8.1–8.4.
• Alkalinity (typical reef range): About 7–11 dKH.
• Calcium (typical reef range): About 380–450 ppm.
• Magnesium (typical reef range): About 1250–1350 ppm.