How difficult is it to keep Cynarina (Button Coral)?

Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.

What is the ideal temperature for Cynarina (Button Coral)?

The ideal temperature for Cynarina (Button Coral) is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

What should I feed Cynarina (Button Coral)?

Cynarina (Button Coral) feeds on: Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus meaty foods. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Cynarina (Button Coral)?

The price of Cynarina (Button Coral) varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Cynarina (Button Coral)

Intermediate

Cynarina lacrymalis

A solitary large stony coral of the western Indo-Pacific. By day translucent tissue inflates to cover the skeleton, and some specimens show a cat's-eye pattern.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

24〜27℃

Diet

Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus meaty foods

About

Cynarina lacrymalis is a solitary stony coral of the family Lobophylliidae from the western Indo-Pacific, known variously as the flat cup coral, solitary cup coral, button coral, doughnut coral and cat's eye coral. The skeleton is a single circular cup covered by translucent tissue. By day the tissue takes on water and inflates markedly, and the septa show through as radiating lines, giving it a distinctive texture. Colour includes red, green, orange and brown, and specimens that shift colour from centre to margin or show a cat's-eye pattern are favoured for display. At night the inflation subsides and feeding tentacles extend. Moderate or lower lighting with gentle flow suits it, and it is normally placed directly on sand. Strong current can tear the inflated tissue, so position it carefully. As a scleractinian it falls under CITES Appendix II.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Temperature & humidity for the Cynarina (Button Coral)

The ideal temperature for the Cynarina (Button Coral) is 24〜27℃.

Basic Info

Origin

Western Indo-Pacific (Australia, the Maldives, Papua New Guinea and elsewhere)

Temperature

24〜27℃

Diet

Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus meaty foods

Care Guide

Lighting

Moderate or lower LED lighting; start low and acclimate, since too much light causes fading.

Care Specifications

Carbonate (KH): 7–12 dKH
Water Temp.: 24–27℃
Specific Gravity: 1.023–1.025
Salinity: 33–35 ppt
Calcium (Ca): 400–450 ppm
Magnesium (Mg): 1300–1400 ppm

LPSLight: Medium (PAR 50-150)Flow: LowPlacement: Bottom

Sources: Wikipedia: Reef aquarium (water parameters) / AlgaeBarn: A Quick Guide to LPS and SPS / Wikipedia

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Cynarina lacrymalis (Milne Edwards & Haime, 1849)

Synonyms: Antillia grandiflora, Antillia japonica, Antillia nomaensis, Caryophyllia carduus, Caryophyllia lacrymalis, Cynarina lacrimalis, Cynarina savignyi, Lithophyllia lacrymalis

Authority databases: WoRMS

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

CITES Appendix II

Scleractinia (Cynarina lacrymalis, Lobophylliidae). CITES Appendix II.

Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (Scleractinia spp. = App. II)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.