Yellow Eye Chalice Coral The Yellow Eye Chalice is a striking LPS coral known for its glowing yellow eyes set against a contrasting base, creating sharp focal points that really stand out under blue reef lighting. The bright eyes give this chalice a classic collector look while keeping a clean, balanced appearance that works beautifully in mixed and LPS-dominant systems. With its low, spreading growth and intense fluorescence, the Yellow Eye Chalice is ideal for adding colour detail and visual interest to lower reef zones without demanding aggressive lighting or placement. Natural Habitat & Distribution Chalice corals (commonly Echinophyllia / Mycedium types) originate from the Indo-Pacific region and are commonly found across: Indonesia Australia’s Great Barrier Reef Papua New Guinea Fiji and surrounding Pacific islands In the wild, chalice corals inhabit shaded reef slopes and lower reef structures where lighting is reduced and water movement is gentle. A Brief History Chalice corals became highly sought after as advances in LED lighting revealed their intense fluorescence and eye-catching colour patterns. Eye-dominated morphs, such as yellow-eyed varieties, remain especially popular due to their ability to maintain contrast and visual impact even as the coral grows. They are often chosen as reliable feature corals alongside higher-end named chalices. Appearance & Growth Classified as an LPS (Large Polyp Stony) coral, the Yellow Eye Chalice features a low-profile, encrusting growth form. Bright yellow eyes with strong contrast Smooth to lightly textured surface Strong fluorescence under blue lighting Low, spreading growth pattern Growth is slow to moderate, with the coral gradually encrusting surrounding rockwork. Placement & Lighting Chalice corals prefer lower light environments. Lighting: Low–Medium Best placed on lower rockwork or shaded areas Excessive light can cause colour fading or tissue stress Light acclimation is recommended when changing placement. Flow Requirements Provide low to moderate, indirect flow. Enough movement to prevent detritus buildup Avoid strong or direct flow onto the tissue A gentle, random flow pattern is ideal. Water Chemistry Stable reef parameters are essential for long-term success. Maintain consistent levels of: Alkalinity Calcium Magnesium Chalice corals perform best in systems with low to moderate nutrients rather than ultra-low nutrient environments. Feeding Primarily photosynthetic, Yellow Eye Chalice corals benefit from occasional supplemental feeding. Fine meaty foods LPS pellets or coral-specific blends Feed sparingly 1–2 times per week, preferably during lower light periods. Temperament & Spacing Chalice corals can be semi-aggressive and may extend sweeper tentacles. Allow adequate spacing from neighbouring corals Avoid placement near delicate species Monitor nighttime sweeper extension Frag Size & Natural Variation Frag size: Typically a mounted frag (unless otherwise stated) Eye brightness, base colour, and growth pattern may vary depending on lighting and tank conditions. Care Summary Care Level: Moderate Flow: Low–Medium Lighting: Low–Medium Temperament: Semi-aggressive