Description
Biota Pearl Bubble Coral
Widely known as the pearl bubble coral, Physogyra lichtensteini is an old reef aquarium favorite. While rare in the aquarium trade in the past, it is now available as captive-propagated from Biota. This eye-catching LPS bears fleshy vesicles that are adapted to capturing light in dim environments. It may grow in a meandroid fashion with the polyps forming deep ridges and crevasses. It is very similar in appearance to the Plerogyra spp. bubble corals in that it has numerous large vesicles (the bubbles of Physogyra are noticeably smaller). These bladder-like structures inflate or deflate as light availability changes.
The color of pearl bubbles are somewhat muted, ranging from grey to bright green. It must be handled gently to avoid damaging bubbles due to sharp projections in the skeleton underneath. The bubbles retract when touched. They deflate at night and are replaced by sweeper tentacles.
Pearl bubble corals are relatively simple to care for in moderate water flow and moderate to bright light. Many aquarists love the way that its vesicles sway in the gentle currents. It may be fed at night while sweeper tentacles are extended.
Size and Care Requirements
Purchase Size: 3″ (length)
Max Size: NA
Water Parameters: 72-78° F, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025 ppt, dKH 8-12
Color: Pearly white, sometimes with golden brown or greenish sheen
Reef Safe: Yes
Diet: Zooxanthellate.
Pearl Bubble Coral Species Information
Pearl bubble corals occur across the Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea to the Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea and Indonesia. It is most common in shallow, turbid reef environments with tidal currents in depths up to around 130 feet. The more turbid the waters are, the shallower this coral may be found. Colonies cover protected lower reef slopes, caves and even overhangs reaching diameters of up to nine feet.
100% Alive On Arrival (AOA) Guarantee for farmed Physogyra
We guarantee that every Biota pearl bubble coral we sell will be Alive On Arrival and in good health. Should they arrive in any other state, we will either replace them free of charge (including shipping). If the total livestock loss is less than $20, we will issue store credit. For more information, please also visit our 100% Alive On Arrival Guarantee page.
