Ricordea is an octocoral from the order Corallimorpharia, often called the "gem of the ocean" for its vibrant colors and unique disc-like shape. Covered in short, bulbous tentacles, it displays stunning beauty. Found in tropical waters like the Caribbean and Indo-Pacific, Ricordea’s vivid colors and fluorescent glow make it a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts.
Overview of Ricordea
Classification and Distribution
Ricordea florida : Primarily found in the Caribbean and surrounding waters.
Ricordea yuma : Widely distributed across the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Appearance and Structure
Ricordea florida
Tentacle Characteristics :
Short, tightly packed tentacles with pronounced bulbous tips, appearing rounded and smooth.
High tentacle density gives it a compact overall appearance.
Coloration :
Common colors include green, orange, and pink, with soft tones and some individuals displaying subtle fluorescent effects.
Ecological Traits :
Moderate growth rate with strong adaptability.
Ricordea yuma
Tentacle Characteristics :
Tentacles are slightly longer and softer, with bulbous tips that appear translucent.
Lower tentacle density gives it a more spread-out and relaxed appearance.
Coloration :
Displays a wide range of colors, including purple, blue, yellow, and green, with some individuals showing multiple colors simultaneously.
Strong fluorescent effects, especially striking under UV or blue light.
Ecological Traits :
Slower growth rate but can survive long-term in stable environments, gradually expanding its coverage area.
Symbiotic Relationships
Ricordea forms a symbiotic relationship with Zooxanthellae, relying on photosynthesis for most of its energy while also actively capturing plankton or other organic matter.
Biological Characteristics
- Growth Pattern :
- Ricordea is a solitary organism that typically grows in a fixed position, attaching to rocks or other hard surfaces.
- It has a slow growth rate but can survive long-term in stable environments.
- Fluorescence Effect :
- The fluorescence of Ricordea is due to specialized proteins (fluorescent proteins) in its tissues, which absorb specific light wavelengths and re-emit them as different colors.
- Feeding Ability :
- While Ricordea primarily relies on symbiotic Zooxanthellae for photosynthesis, it can also capture plankton or small prey using nematocysts on its tentacles.
- While Ricordea primarily relies on symbiotic Zooxanthellae for photosynthesis, it can also capture plankton or small prey using nematocysts on its tentacles.
Care Guidelines
Lighting Requirements :
Optimal Range : Moderate to strong lighting (recommended PAR range of 100-200 µmol/m²/s).
Considerations : Excessive light can cause bleaching, so acclimate Ricordea gradually to new lighting conditions. Full-spectrum LED or metal halide (HQI) lights are ideal for meeting its needs.
Water Flow Requirements :
Optimal Range : Moderate water flow.
Considerations : Avoid direct, strong flow that may damage its soft tissues. Moderate flow helps with food delivery and waste removal.
Water Parameters
Temperature : 24-27°C
Salinity : 1.023-1.025
pH : 8.1-8.4
Calcium : 380-450 ppm
Magnesium : 1250-1350 ppm
Carbonate Hardness (KH) : 7-10 dKH
Nutrient Supply
Photosynthesis : Ricordea obtains most of its energy through photosynthesis performed by symbiotic Zooxanthellae.
Active Feeding : Regular feeding with brine shrimp, chopped fish/shrimp meat, or specialized coral food is recommended to supplement nutrition.
Trace Element Supplementation : Occasional addition of trace elements like iodine and potassium supports healthy Ricordea growth.
Space Requirements
Ensure adequate distance from other organisms to avoid inhibiting the growth of nearby marine life.
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