The Chili Coral is a non-photosynthetic soft coral. While hardy and relatively easy to care for, the Chili 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 Chili Coral requires low
lighting levels combined with medium to strong indirect
water movement. Place the Chili Coral underneath live rock overhangs and out of direct bright light to prevent damaging stress. The Chili 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 Chili Coral (and other soft corals) should be given ample space between neighboring corals or anemones to accommodate for growth and potential coral aggression.
Similar to other non-photosynthetic soft corals the Chili Coral obtains nutrients through active filter feeding. The Chili Coral does not contain symbiotic algae to rely on for food. Therefore, the diet of the Chili 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.
