© Bondolo / CC BY-SA 3.0Australomussa (Lobophyllia rowleyensis)
The Flat Coral (Australomussa) is an LPS coral in the family Lobophylliidae, its rounded colonies formed by a handful of large, fleshy polyps. In the trade it's still often sold under its older genus name, Australomussa, even though it's now classified within Lobophyllia. Color variation is wide, and especially vivid specimens turn up around Indonesia, near the northern edge of its range. By day the polyps tend to stay closed and unassuming, but once settled in a tank they reveal a real presence. Because it calls for careful attention to water quality and lighting, it's generally considered a coral for intermediate keepers.
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About Australomussa (Lobophyllia rowleyensis)
Australomussa is an LPS coral with large fleshy polyps and striking color variation, best suited to intermediate reef keepers.
7 things to know before welcoming a Australomussa (Lobophyllia rowleyensis)
1Give It Space From Neighbors
This coral extends its large polyps quite far, and contact with neighboring corals can lead to stinging injuries on either side. Leave generous spacing when placing it in your aquascape.
2Wide Range of Color Morphs
Color variation is one of this coral's biggest draws, with especially vivid individuals showing up around Indonesia, near the northern edge of its range. It's worth viewing the actual specimen's coloration before choosing one.
3Moderate Light and Flow
As an LPS coral with thick, fleshy polyps, it can struggle to expand fully under overly intense lighting or flow. Aim for the same gentle conditions you'd provide other LPS species.
4Best For Intermediate Keepers
This coral is generally rated for intermediate keepers, so some prior experience managing water quality and lighting is helpful. If you're new to coral keeping, it's a good idea to get comfortable with the basics first.
5Tentacles Extend at Night
Like many LPS corals, it often extends its tentacles and becomes more active once the lights go down. Watching its nighttime appearance differ from its daytime look is part of the enjoyment.
6Feeding Can Help Condition
Thanks to its large polyps, offering fine particulate foods or small food items can sometimes help support its condition. Feeding isn't strictly necessary, so judge based on your tank's overall environment.
7Watch for Name Variations
While classified scientifically as Lobophyllia rowleyensis, it's still frequently sold under its older genus name, Australomussa. Since the same species can appear under different names, checking the scientific name at purchase can help avoid confusion.
Frequently asked questions about Australomussa (Lobophyllia rowleyensis)
- Q.Can beginners keep this coral?
- A.This coral is generally considered suited to intermediate keepers, so some experience managing water quality and lighting is helpful. It's a good idea to build up reefkeeping experience before taking one on.
- Q.Are Australomussa and this coral different species?
- A.No, they refer to the same species. Its scientific name is Lobophyllia rowleyensis, but it's still commonly sold under the older genus name Australomussa.
- Q.Is it safe to place near other corals?
- A.Since it extends large polyps, contact with neighboring corals can cause stinging injuries to either coral. Be sure to leave adequate spacing when placing it in your tank.
- Q.How much color variation does it have?
- A.Color variation is quite wide, with especially vivid specimens found around Indonesia, near the northern edge of its range. Even within the same species, coloration differs from individual to individual.
- Q.Is this species subject to CITES regulations?
- A.No, this species is not subject to CITES. That said, it's always a good idea to confirm current information before acquiring one.
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Learn more about Australomussa (Lobophyllia rowleyensis) in the encyclopedia
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Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
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