Striped Red Discosoma Mushroom Coral

Striped Red Discosoma Mushroom, Discosoma sp., is a vividly colored corallimorph characterized by a broad fleshy oral disc and relatively smooth surface compared with more heavily textured mushroom corals. This WYSIWYG specimen displays an intense red to crimson base covered with numerous raised red vesicles. Broad pale blue-white radial bands sweep outward across the disc, with additional turquoise to blue-green coloration visible toward portions of the outer edge. Smaller green accents are also present near several of the radial bands, while the central mouth is pale and strongly contrasted against the surrounding red tissue. The combination of saturated red coloration and irregular pale striping gives this specimen its distinctive “Striped Red” appearance. Discosoma mushrooms contain symbiotic zooxanthellae that provide much of their nutritional requirements through photosynthesis and may also capture small suspended foods. Because species-level identification within Discosoma cannot reliably be confirmed from external appearance alone, Discosoma sp. is the scientifically appropriate designation.

Care Guide: Discosoma sp. generally performs best under low to moderate reef lighting with low to moderate, indirect water flow. Avoid strong direct current, which can prevent full expansion or cause the mushroom to detach from its substrate. Place on stable lower to mid-level rockwork with adequate room for expansion and future spreading. Maintain stable salinity, temperature, alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, nitrate, and phosphate. Discosoma mushrooms obtain most of their energy through photosynthesis but may benefit from occasional very small meaty or planktonic foods. Acclimate gradually when introducing the coral to stronger lighting and avoid abrupt changes in aquarium conditions.