Scolymia Vitiensis

Most of the corals sold in the hobby as "Scolymia" or "Indo scoly" are this species. In subtropical regions it usually stays flat, single-polyped and smaller than 6 cm; in tropical regions it grows larger and sometimes becomes a colony by forming secondary mouths at the edge. Its fleshy tissue carries a pattern of concentric rings because of the septa beneath. Known first as Scolymia and later as Parascolymia, the species is placed in the genus Lobophyllia in current classification. Its trade is subject to CITES Appendix II; most individuals are wild-collected, so look for a maricultured individual if possible.

• Light: Low, about 50–100 PAR.
• Flow: Low and indirect; the tissue should move gently.
• Placement: On the sand or at the very bottom of the rockwork.
• Water parameters: Salinity 1.024–1.026, KH 7–10 dKH, calcium 400–450 mg/L, magnesium 1250–1350 mg/L; nitrate 2–10 mg/L.

It is photosynthetic, but regular supplemental feeding is important. Twice a week, when the tentacles open at night, place mysis or chopped shrimp on top of the mouth.

It can digest a coral it touches with its mesenterial filaments; leave 10 cm between it and its neighbors. Keep it away from aggressive corals on the sand. Dwarf angelfish, large angelfish and hermit crabs may pick at the fleshy tissue.