Jade Cynarina (92)

Jade Cynarina Coral Care | The Happy Reef

Jade Cynarina is a spectacular solitary LPS coral with a large, translucent fleshy polyp that can inflate far beyond the skeleton beneath it. The jade colouration gives this specimen a particularly vivid appearance, while the inflated tissue can create an almost bubble-like texture.

Cynarina are commonly called Button Corals or Meat Corals. Unlike colonial LPS made up of many individual polyps, a Cynarina is essentially one large coral polyp sitting over a single skeleton. A healthy specimen can inflate so dramatically that much of that skeleton disappears from view.

Scientific Name: Cynarina lacrymalis

PAR: 50?125

Flow: Low. Gentle, indirect water movement is ideal. Strong flow can prevent full inflation and cause the delicate tissue to rub against the underlying skeleton.

Placement: Sandbed

Feeding: Beneficial. Cynarina are photosynthetic but are also capable feeders. They readily accept mysis, finely chopped seafood and suitable LPS foods when showing a feeding response. Occasional target feeding can help maintain a full, healthy specimen, but avoid oversized pieces of food.

Care Notes: Gentle conditions suit Cynarina particularly well. Keep it away from strong flow and sharp rockwork, as its highly inflated tissue is easily damaged. Give it enough room to expand without contacting neighbouring corals and acclimate carefully to stronger lighting. Stable alkalinity, calcium and magnesium will support continued skeletal growth.