Nano Button Scoly (Scolymia sp.)(Also known as Mini Scoly, Button Coral, or Disc Coral) OverviewThe Nano Button Scoly (Scolymia sp.) is a compact, vividly coloured large-polyp stony (LPS) coral, highly prized for its brilliant hues and symmetrical disc-like shape. Often displaying vibrant combinations of red, green, orange, and blue, this coral brings exceptional colour contrast and visual appeal to reef aquariums — even in small spaces. Its fleshy, button-sized body and central feeding mouth give it a bold presence, while its peaceful nature and moderate care level make it a popular choice for both nano and full-sized reef systems. OriginNative to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Coral Sea, Great Barrier Reef, Indonesia, and Fiji. Found on sandy reef slopes and lagoon floors, where it rests on substrate or among rubble in low to moderate light and gentle flow. FeedingThe Nano Button Scoly is photosynthetic, housing zooxanthellae that provide most of its nutritional needs. However, regular target feeding enhances colour and growth. Feed 2–3 times per week with: Mysis shrimp or finely chopped seafood Marine plankton or LPS coral foods Enriched brine shrimp or coral pellets Feed when feeding tentacles are visible (usually at night or after lights dim). LightingLow to moderate lighting. Too much light can cause colour fading or tissue recession. Provide diffused illumination from LED, T5, or hybrid systems. PAR range: 75–150 ¬µmol/m¬≤/s Acclimate slowly to new lighting conditions to avoid bleaching. Under blue-spectrum lighting, colour pigments intensify dramatically, producing neon fluorescence. Water FlowLow to moderate, indirect flow. Gentle, variable currents help keep the coral clean and allow full polyp expansion. Avoid direct jets of flow that can cause the fleshy tissue to retract or tear. Placement Place on the substrate or a stable rock ledge with gentle flow and diffused light. Ensure a flat, secure surface — the coral expands outward and should not tip or shift. Provide 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) of space from other corals to prevent contact with sweeper tentacles or aggressive neighbours. Tank MatesReef safe. Compatible with: Peaceful reef fish (gobies, blennies, tangs, clownfish, etc.) Snails, hermit crabs, shrimp, and starfish Other non-aggressive LPS and soft corals Avoid: Large angelfish or butterflyfish (may nip at fleshy tissue) Aggressive stinging corals (e.g., Torch, Hammer, Galaxea) nearby Crabs or shrimp that may climb or irritate the coral AggressionPeaceful.Scolymia corals do not possess long sweeper tentacles but can release mild toxins if crowded. Maintain moderate spacing to prevent tissue damage or chemical stress. Experience LevelBeginner to intermediate. The Nano Button Scoly is hardy and easy to maintain with stable water conditions. Ideal for smaller reef systems, coral gardens, or collectors looking for a compact, colourful display coral. Water Parameters Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F) pH: 8.1–8.4 Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG Alkalinity (dKH): 8–12 Calcium: 400–450 ppm Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm Nitrate:
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