
Artichoke Coral
Scolymia cubensis
Care Summary
Scolymia cubensis is a single, large-polyped disc coral with intense color and a premium price tag — it's a showpiece species that experienced reefers keep as a centerpiece, not filler. Bottom placement under low light with minimal flow; this coral sits on the sandbed and wants gentle, diffused current — direct blast from a powerhead will cause chronic retraction. The intermediate difficulty comes from its sensitivity to nutrient extremes — too low and the tissue thins, too high and it browns out; it likes a middle-ground, lightly nutrient-rich system. Feed it directly every week with meaty foods like mysis or small silversides placed on the disc; Scolymia is one of the most visually rewarding feeders to watch in a reef tank, and regular food is essential for long-term health.
