What Makes the Mummy Eye Chalice Special?
The Mummy Eye Chalice (Echinophyllia sp.) is a standout LPS coral known for its bright orange to red “eyes” contrasted against a green or teal base. It’s hardy once settled, but it does best when you respect its need for space and stable conditions.
Place your Mummy Eye Chalice in the lower half of the tank, ideally on a flat or gently sloping rock. This helps the coral encrust and grow into a smooth, colorful plate. Avoid high-traffic areas where snails or urchins might knock it over.
- Lighting: Moderate PAR (80–150). Too much light can wash out colors and cause tissue recession.
- Flow: Low to moderate, indirect flow. The flesh is delicate and can tear in strong, direct current.
- Parameters: Keep alkalinity 8–9 dKH, calcium 420–450 ppm, magnesium 1300–1400 ppm, and nutrients low but not zero (nitrate 5–15 ppm, phosphate 0.03–0.08 ppm).
Feeding, Placement, and Growth Tips
The Mummy Eye Chalice can live on light and dissolved nutrients, but target feeding will noticeably improve growth and color.
- Feed 1–2x per week with small meaty foods (mysis, reef roids, fine LPS pellets) when feeder tentacles are out, usually after lights down.
- Turn off flow for 10–15 minutes while feeding so food stays on the coral.
- Use a coral feeder or pipette to gently place food on the “eyes.”
Tip: Give the Mummy Eye at least 2–3 inches of space. Chalices can extend sweeper tentacles and sting neighboring corals at night.
Watch for early warning signs like receding edges, faded color, or exposed skeleton. If you notice issues, reduce light intensity, check alkalinity stability, and verify that no nearby coral is stinging it. With stable water and gentle care, your Mummy Eye Chalice will develop thick, vibrant tissue and become a true focal point in your reef.
