Bubblegum Monster Chalice

The Bubblegum Monster Chalice is one of those corals that instantly steals the spotlight in a reef tank. With its wild mix of pinks, blues, and neon greens, this chalice packs serious color into a relatively small footprint, making it perfect for both nano reefs and larger displays.

Bubblegum Monster Chalice Overview

The Bubblegum Monster Chalice is a type of Echinophyllia, known for its thick, encrusting to plating growth and intense, eye-catching coloration. When happy, its swollen mouths and bumpy texture give it a true “monster” look under reef lighting.

Key characteristics:

  • Lighting: Low to moderate PAR, often 75–150
  • Flow: Low to moderate, indirect flow preferred
  • Temperament: Semi-aggressive, with sweeper tentacles at night
  • Placement: Lower rockwork or sandbed, away from delicate neighbors

Tip: Start your Bubblegum Monster Chalice in lower light and gradually move it brighter over 2–3 weeks to avoid bleaching.

Caring for a Bubblegum Monster Chalice

Chalices are generally hardy once settled, but they do best in a stable, mature reef system. The Bubblegum Monster Chalice will reward good husbandry with faster growth and deeper coloration.

Ideal Water Parameters

Aim to keep your reef tank within these ranges:

  • Temperature: 24–26°C (75–78°F)
  • Salinity: 1.025–1.026 specific gravity
  • Alkalinity: 8–9.5 dKH
  • Calcium: 420–450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
  • Nitrate: 5–15 ppm
  • Phosphate: 0.03–0.1 ppm

Lighting & Flow Tips

  • Use blue-heavy reef lighting to make the Bubblegum Monster Chalice glow.
  • Avoid direct blasting from powerheads; gentle, randomized flow is best.
  • Watch for tissue recession on edges, which can indicate too much light or flow.

Feeding, Placement & Compatibility

Although the Bubblegum Monster Chalice can survive on photosynthesis and dissolved nutrients, targeted feeding helps it thrive.

Feeding Recommendations

  • Offer small meaty foods (mysis, reef roids, fine pellets) 1–2 times per week.
  • Feed at night or just after lights out when feeding tentacles are extended.
  • Turn off flow briefly so food can settle on the coral.

Placement & Tankmates

  • Give at least 5–7 cm of space around the Bubblegum Monster Chalice.
  • Keep away from delicate SPS and soft corals that can be stung.
  • Choose peaceful fish and invertebrates that won’t nip at fleshy corals.

If you’re planning a colorful LPS collection, consider pairing your Bubblegum Monster Chalice with bold pieces like ultra acans or rainbow zoas for a stunning mixed reef. For more coral care ideas, check out our guide to LPS coral care and our in-depth article on chalice coral care. Looking to balance your aquascape around this showpiece? Our reef aquascape ideas article can help you design a layout that really makes this coral pop.