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Ricordea© Stan Shebs / CC BY-SA 3.0

Ricordea

Ricordea mushroom corals are beloved for their plump, bubble-like tentacles that give each polyp a soft, textured look. No two individuals are quite alike in color or pattern, which is part of why they're so popular among collectors who enjoy gathering different variations side by side. They prefer calm water flow rather than strong currents, so they do well placed on flat rock surfaces or toward the front of a layout. Ricordea rely mainly on photosynthesis but can also be fed liquid foods, and their compact adult size of about 3 to 8 cm makes them manageable even in smaller tanks. With a lifespan of several years or more, they can be a long-term companion in the reef.

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About Ricordea

Ricordea is a beginner-friendly corallimorph known for its bubbly tentacles and vivid color variety. Adults reach about 3 to 8 cm, making it a popular pick for collectors.

7 things to know before welcoming a Ricordea

  1. 1Prefers gentle water flow

    Ricordea can close up or even detach if exposed to strong, direct water flow for long periods. Position it away from the direct pump stream, in a spot with gentle, indirect circulation instead.

  2. 2Moderate lighting is best

    Since Ricordea relies on photosynthesis, it needs some lighting, but overly intense light can cause fading or shrinking. Start it in a mid-to-lower position in the tank where light is softer, then adjust based on how it responds.

  3. 3Each individual looks different

    Even within the same type, no two Ricordea polyps have exactly the same color or pattern. Taking your time to choose the individual you like best is one of the unique pleasures of keeping this species.

  4. 4Can be supplemented with liquid food

    While Ricordea gets most of its energy from photosynthesis, supplementing with liquid food can sometimes support better coloration and growth. Feed sparingly and adjust based on results, since overfeeding can degrade water quality.

  5. 5Avoid moving it too often

    Ricordea is sensitive to environmental changes, and moving it around too frequently can make it harder to settle in. After placing it, leave it in the same spot for a while and only reposition if truly necessary.

  6. 6Keep water parameters stable

    Sudden shifts in temperature or salinity can stress Ricordea. Keeping a consistent water change schedule and regularly testing water parameters helps maintain a stable environment.

  7. 7Set up a mature tank beforehand

    Ricordea tends to settle in more easily in a tank with stable, mature water conditions. It's important to give your tank enough time to cycle before bringing one home, so the environment is ready to receive it.

Frequently asked questions about Ricordea

Q.Can beginners keep Ricordea?
A.Yes, Ricordea is generally considered beginner-friendly. That said, it does need attention to water flow and lighting, so it's best to have the basic tank environment in place before bringing one home.
Q.How big does it grow?
A.Adults typically reach around 3 to 8 cm in size. Because it stays fairly compact, it's manageable even in smaller tanks.
Q.How long can it live?
A.Its lifespan is generally several years or more. With a stable environment, it can be enjoyed as a long-term addition to the reef.
Q.What should I feed it?
A.Ricordea gets most of its energy from photosynthesis, so feeding isn't strictly necessary. Supplementing with liquid food can sometimes support coloration and growth.
Q.Is it subject to any regulations?
A.Ricordea is not subject to CITES. There are no special procedures to worry about when bringing one home.

Useful tools for Ricordea care

Learn more about Ricordea in the encyclopedia

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Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.

Ricordea related articles

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