LIGHTING
Ricordea mushrooms do not require as much light as some other corals. It can be kept under normal output fluorescents without much difficulty. In some cases, it may extend more readily under subdued lighting, however it may display more attractive colors when placed under stronger lighting.
Low Light
Low light translates to about 30-50 PAR
Medium Light
Medium Light is between 50-150 PAR
High Light
High Light is anything over 150 PAR
WATER FLOW
We recommend keeping the mushrooms in a relatively low flow area of the reef display. Too much flow could cause this particular species to become stressed and not extend fully or blow around the tank. If a Ricordea florida polyp detaches from its substrate, place it in a low flow area of the aquarium with some rubble and it will reattach on its own.
FEEDING
Ricordea derives much of its energy from the products of their zooxanthellae. They can be fed small morsels of food however and may benefit from regular feeding.
PROPAGATION
This genus for the most part has been propagated extensively in captivity and is an excellent candidate for aquaculture. It is reasonable to believe that a sustainable harvest can be achieved in time.
ACCLIMATION
Proper acclimation is extremely important considering the stress imposed on the animals by the shipping process.