Mushroom Coral
Mushroom corals (discosomas and rhodactis 'shrooms') are flat, soft discs that carpet low rock in a huge range of colours and textures - and they may be the single most beginner-proof coral there is, thriving in the low light and calm flow where fussier corals sulk.
🗓️ Last reviewed: July 2026
Overview
Mushroom corals (discosomas and rhodactis 'shrooms') are flat, soft discs that carpet low rock in a huge range of colours and textures - and they may be the single most beginner-proof coral there is, thriving in the low light and calm flow where fussier corals sulk. (Discosoma and Rhodactis species.)
Origin & Habitat
Indo-Pacific reefs, in shaded, lower-flow pockets and rubble zones.
Appearance
Soft circular discs from a couple of centimetres wide, smooth or bumpy, in greens, reds, blues and metallics; some ('hairy' rhodactis) are fuzzy and can catch food.
Placement & Temperament
Peaceful but will detach and 'walk' to a spot it likes, and can multiply into a carpet. Give it a low, shaded, gentle-flow area.
Tank & Water Conditions
Salinity 1.024-1.026, 24-27°C, stable alkalinity 8-11 dKH, calcium 400-450, magnesium 1300-1350; tolerant of slightly less pristine water than most.
Lighting & Flow
Low light (about 40-100 PAR) and gentle flow - too much of either makes them shrink and detach.
Feeding
Photosynthetic; larger hairy types accept the occasional meaty morsel.
Health & Growth
Among the toughest corals - a good first coral. If one detaches and drifts, it is choosing a better spot, not dying.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Possibly the easiest coral to keep
- Loves low light and low flow
- Multiplies into a colourful carpet
Cons
- Detaches and 'walks' around
- Can spread over wanted rock
- Fine detail needs decent light for colour
Mushroom Coral - frequently asked questions
What is the easiest coral for a first reef tank?
Mushroom corals and green star polyps top most lists. Mushrooms in particular shrug off low light and gentle flow, which is exactly where beginner tanks tend to be.
My mushroom moved - is that bad?
No. Mushrooms detach and relocate to conditions they prefer. Let it settle; it will re-attach where it is happier.
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