Orange Glow Discosoma Mushroom

Orange Glow Discosoma Mushroom Care Guide

The Orange Glow Discosoma Mushroom is a standout soft coral for reef aquariums, prized for its intense orange coloration and gentle, wavy texture. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned reef keepers, this hardy mushroom coral adds instant visual impact without demanding high-maintenance care.

Appearance & Placement in the Reef Tank

Orange Glow Discosoma Mushrooms form smooth, disc-shaped polyps that can expand impressively under the right conditions. Their glowing orange tones often show best under blue or actinic lighting, making them a favorite for modern LED-lit reef tanks.

For best results, place this coral:

  • Low to moderate light areas, such as the lower half of the rockwork
  • Low to moderate flow, avoiding direct, blasting currents
  • On isolated rocks if you want to limit spreading over time

They pair beautifully with other soft corals and LPS, adding a warm, glowing contrast to greens, blues, and purples.

Water Parameters & Basic Care

One of the main reasons the Orange Glow Discosoma Mushroom is so popular is its forgiving nature. It tolerates a range of conditions, but will thrive when your reef is stable and well-maintained.

  • Temperature: 76–79°F (24–26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.024–1.026 specific gravity
  • pH: 8.1–8.4
  • Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH
  • Calcium: 400–450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

Regular water changes, good nutrient export, and consistent parameters are usually enough to keep this coral happy. Many hobbyists find that Orange Glow Discosoma Mushrooms actually prefer slightly nutrient-rich systems compared to very sterile, ultra-low nutrient tanks.

Feeding, Growth, and Compatibility

Discosoma mushrooms host symbiotic zooxanthellae, so they receive much of their energy from light. However, they can benefit from occasional target feeding.

  • Offer fine particulate foods like reef roids, powdered coral foods, or phytoplankton
  • Feed lightly 1–2 times per week if nutrients allow
  • Avoid overfeeding to prevent excess nutrient buildup

Over time, the Orange Glow Discosoma Mushroom can spread and form a colorful colony. If you want to manage its growth, place it on its own rock island so it doesn’t overtake neighboring corals.

Compatibility-wise, this coral is generally peaceful, but like many mushrooms, it can irritate nearby corals if they come into direct contact. Provide a bit of space between it and sensitive SPS or LPS species.

Tip: Watch for signs of stress like shrinking, bleaching, or gaping mouths. These often point to lighting changes, unstable parameters, or excessive flow.

Learn More About Soft Corals

If you enjoy the ease and color of the Orange Glow Discosoma Mushroom, you might also like exploring:

With its vibrant color, resilience, and low-maintenance care, the Orange Glow Discosoma Mushroom is an excellent choice for adding warm, glowing tones to almost any reef aquarium.