SPINE CUP CORAL

The Spine Cup Coral (Mycedium spp.), often called a Spiny Chalice Coral, is a captivating large polyp stony (LPS) coral valued for its dramatic, cup-shaped growth and spiked surface texture. Unlike smoother chalices, this coral develops irregular, raised ridges and spine-like protrusions, creating a sculptural, armored appearance that stands out under actinic lighting.

Spine Cup Corals display a wide range of colors, including neon green, orange, red, and purple, often with contrasting eyes or rim accents. They prefer moderate lighting and low to moderate water flow, which allows their fleshy polyps to stay inflated and maintain healthy tissue growth without damage from excessive movement.

These corals are photosynthetic but benefit from occasional spot feeding, especially at night when feeder tentacles emerge. Due to their encrusting and plating growth habit, they should be placed on rock ledges or isolated areas where they can grow outward without encroaching on more sensitive neighbors. With the right conditions, Spine Cup Corals grow steadily and become living works of art.

Specifications:
• Scientific Name: Mycedium spp.
• Care Level: Moderate
• Lighting: Moderate
• Water Flow: Low to Moderate
• Placement: Middle to Bottom (on flat rock or ledge)
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive (sweeper tentacles may appear)
• Growth Form: Encrusting to cup-shaped with spiny ridges
• Feeding: Optional—responds well to nighttime target feeding
• Special Notes: Can shade or overgrow nearby corals; allow space to expand