Chernobyl Elegance WYSIWYG

Chernobyl Elegance Coral (Catalaphyllia jardinei)

Description:
The Chernobyl Elegance Coral is a stunning variant of the classic Elegance Coral (Catalaphyllia jardinei), prized for its intense neon coloration and flowing tentacles that create a mesmerizing, radiant display under actinic lighting. This coral features a brilliant mix of glowing green tenticles — the “Chernobyl” nickname is well-earned. Its fleshy polyp structure and gentle movement make it a captivating centerpiece in any reef aquarium.

Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive (may extend long sweeper tentacles at night)
Placement: Bottom or lower-middle areas of the aquarium, allowing ample space for expansion and to avoid contact with neighboring corals.

Ideal Water Parameters

Feeding & Nutrition:

While the Chernobyl Elegance Coral hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae that provide much of its nutrition through photosynthesis, it also benefits greatly from supplemental feedings. Offer small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, or finely chopped seafood 1–2 times per week for optimal growth and color intensity.

Notes:

• Allow sufficient space between this coral and others, as its sweeper tentacles can sting nearby specimens.

• Stability in parameters is key — avoid sudden changes in salinity or alkalinity.

• Ideal for established reef systems with stable nutrient control and consistent lighting.

Quick Summary:

• Scientific Name: Catalaphyllia jardinei

• Common Name: Chernobyl Elegance Coral

• Type: LPS (Large Polyp Stony Coral)

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Lighting: Moderate

• Flow: Gentle

• Placement: Sand bed or lower rockwork