Mummy Eye Chalice

The Mummy Eye Chalice is a standout LPS (large polyp stony) coral that brings glowing color and eerie beauty to any reef tank. With its bright orange “eyes” set against a green, teal, or bluish base, this coral is a favorite for hobbyists who love dramatic contrast without extreme difficulty.

Appearance & Placement of the Mummy Eye Chalice

The Mummy Eye Chalice forms an encrusting, plate-like colony that slowly spreads over rock. Its vivid eyes and textured surface make it a striking focal point, even under moderate lighting.

For best results, place this coral:

  • Low to mid-level in the tank to avoid light shock from intense LEDs
  • On a stable rock shelf or isolated island to control its spread
  • Away from aggressive neighbors, as it can extend sweeper tentacles at night

Many reef keepers highlight its color with a slightly bluer spectrum and a gentle shimmer that brings out the glowing eyes.

Lighting, Flow & Water Parameters

The Mummy Eye Chalice prefers gentle conditions that mimic a shaded reef zone. It is not a high-energy SPS coral and will thrive in a calmer area of the aquarium.

Lighting

  • Low to moderate PAR (around 80–150) is ideal
  • Acclimate slowly if moving to stronger lighting to prevent bleaching
  • Blue-heavy spectrums enhance fluorescence and eye coloration

Flow

  • Low to moderate, indirect flow is best
  • Avoid direct blasts from powerheads that can damage tissue
  • Gentle, random flow helps keep detritus from settling on the coral

Water Quality

  • Temperature: 76–79°F (24–26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.025–1.026 specific gravity
  • Alkalinity: 8–9.5 dKH
  • Calcium: 400–450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm

Stable parameters are more important than chasing exact numbers. Avoid rapid swings in alkalinity or temperature, as these can cause recession along the edges of the coral.

Feeding & Long-Term Care

While the Mummy Eye Chalice hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae for energy, targeted feeding can boost growth and deepen coloration.

Feeding Tips

  • Target feed 2–3 times per week with fine meaty foods (mysis, rotifers, reef-specific blends)
  • Offer food shortly after lights dim, when feeding tentacles extend
  • Turn off flow briefly so food can settle on the coral

Watch for tissue recession, faded color, or algae growing on the skeleton—these are early warning signs that lighting, flow, or nutrients need adjustment.

For more on keeping your parameters stable for sensitive LPS corals like the Mummy Eye Chalice, check out our guide on essential reef tank water parameters. If you’re planning a mixed reef, you may also enjoy our article on LPS coral care for beginners, and for aquascaping ideas see our coral placement guide.

With patient placement, gentle lighting, and consistent care, the Mummy Eye Chalice can become one of the most eye-catching centerpieces in your reef aquarium.