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Heliofungia actiniformis
Solitary LPS coral with long tentacles resembling anemones. Clownfish may host in it. Placed on sand — beautiful long tentacles swaying in current.
Heliofungia actiniformis (family Fungiidae) is a solitary, free-living coral from sandy bottoms and lagoons of the Indo-Pacific whose long, extended tentacles closely resemble a sea anemone. It rests unattached on the sand and continuously extends and waves long, thick, color-tipped tentacles, earning the name long-tentacle plate coral. Colors include greens, browns, pinks, and purples. Provide moderate lighting and gentle to moderate flow, and place it directly on the sand. It is delicate, easily damaged, and sensitive to shipping and handling stress, making it a somewhat challenging species. Its long tentacles can sting and harm nearby corals, so allow adequate spacing. Feeding once or twice weekly maintains health and coloration.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Heliofungia (Long Tentacle Plate Coral) lives 10+ years.
The Heliofungia (Long Tentacle Plate Coral) grows to 15-30cm.
The ideal temperature for the Heliofungia (Long Tentacle Plate Coral) is 24〜27℃.
Origin
sandy bottoms and lagoons of the Indo-Pacific
Lifespan
10+ years
Sources: AlgaeBarn: SPS/LPS care (PAR/flow) / AlgaeBarn: Water Parameters 101
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.
Accepted name: Heliofungia actiniformis (Quoy & Gaimard, 1833)
Synonyms: Fungia actiniformis, Fungia actiniformis var. crassitentaculata, Fungia actiniformis var. palawensis, Fungia actiniformis var. salawattensis, Fungia actiniformis var. singapurensis
Authority databases: WoRMS · GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Stony corals (Heliofungia actiniformis, Fungiidae). CITES Appendix II. The IUCN assessment has changed in recent re-evaluation (formerly VU → reported as LC in 2022.2), and the definitive current status is unclear.
Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (Scleractinia spp. = App. II)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Size
15-30cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis + chopped meaty food
Moderate lighting suits it. Since it lies on the sand, arrange the lights so enough light reaches the bottom.
Keep the temperature stable at 24-27°C. Its tissue is easily damaged and it is stress-sensitive, so avoid sudden water changes as well.
Its long tentacles can injure nearby corals, so keep ample spacing. It is sensitive to shipping and handling stress, so handle with care.
Low to medium. Just enough to gently sway tentacles
Place chopped food on tentacles. 2-3 times per week
Can move around. Place on stable sand bed
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Heliofungia (Long Tentacle Plate Coral) is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Heliofungia (Long Tentacle Plate Coral) is 10+ years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Heliofungia (Long Tentacle Plate Coral) typically reaches 15-30cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Heliofungia (Long Tentacle Plate Coral) feeds on: Photosynthesis + chopped meaty food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Heliofungia (Long Tentacle Plate Coral) varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 15, 2026