The Fungia Coral (Fungia spp.) – Plate Coral Care & Placement Guide

The Fungia coral, also commonly known as the Plate Coral or Mushroom Plate Coral, is a fascinating LPS coral known for its unique round disc shape and ability to move slightly within the aquarium.

These corals are most commonly found in brown, green, and orange variations, while rarer colour morphs include yellow, red, and even tri-coloured discs, which are highly sought after in the reef aquarium hobby.

In the wild, Fungia corals are typically found in:

• Shallow lagoons
• Reef flats
• Sandy or rubble-covered areas

They are usually found resting on:

• Coral rubble
• Fine sediment or mud
• Stable hard surfaces

Because of this natural habitat, placement in the aquarium is very important for long-term health.

One of the most important considerations for Fungia coral care is correct placement.

Despite being found on sandy bottoms in nature, I personally find that:

• Coarse sand can damage their underside when they inflate
• This can lead to slow tissue recession over time

For best results:

• Place the coral on a flat rock or frag disc
• Position it on the base of the aquarium, not buried in sand
• In bare-bottom tanks, placing directly on the glass is completely fine

⚠️ Do NOT glue Fungia corals

They naturally expand, contract, and sometimes “walk” slightly across the substrate, so they need freedom of movement.

Fungia corals are unique because they can:

• Inflate and deflate their tissue
• Slowly reposition themselves
• Move slightly across surfaces over time

Because of this behaviour, it is important to:

• Leave enough space around them
• Avoid placing them too close to aggressive or stinging corals

They can easily come into contact with neighbouring corals and become damaged.

Fungia corals vary slightly depending on their natural origin.

• Lighting: Moderate
• Flow: Low to high depending on morphology

• Corals from bright, high-flow environments tend to be more dome-shaped
• Corals from deeper or turbid, low-flow waters tend to be flatter and thinner

This is useful when choosing placement in your aquarium — try to match their natural form to similar flow conditions.

Fungia corals are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to feeding.

They will:

• Catch leftover food particles
• Capture zooplankton from the water column
• Opportunistically feed during broadcast feeding events

However:

• They do not require heavy or frequent feeding
• Occasional feeding can help growth and recovery

The Fungia coral (Fungia spp.) is a unique and rewarding LPS coral that adds movement, texture, and natural behaviour to a reef aquarium.

With correct placement, moderate lighting, and appropriate flow, they are generally hardy and easy to maintain. The key is simply giving them enough space and avoiding improper substrate contact or gluing.

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/fungia-plate-coral-care-guide.123456/

https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/content/category/reef-tank-articles/lps-corals.html

https://reefbuilders.com/tag/fungia/

https://www.advancedaquarist.com/2008/2/aafeature