Green Ricordea Mushroom Coral Polyp

What is a Green Ricordea?

Green Ricordea is a highly desirable mushroom coral known for its vibrant fluorescent green coloration, textured bubble-like appearance, and hardy nature. Native to tropical reef environments, Ricordea corals are among the most popular soft corals for reef aquariums due to their ease of care and stunning visual appeal.

Sold per individual polyp, Green Ricordea can be used to create colourful mushroom gardens, add contrast to SPS and LPS dominated reefs, or serve as a standout feature in nano aquariums. Under blue LED lighting, their fluorescent pigments can produce an impressive glowing effect that attracts attention from across the room.

Their adaptability and relatively forgiving care requirements make them suitable for both beginner and experienced reef keepers.

Care Guide

Scientific Name

Ricordea spp.

Common Names

• Green Ricordea
• Ricordea Mushroom
• Mushroom Coral

Difficulty Level

Easy

Coral Type

Soft Coral

Placement

Low to Middle Areas

Lighting

Low to Moderate

Water Flow

Low to Moderate

Growth Rate

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Reef Safe

Yes

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–26°C
• Salinity: 1.025–1.026 SG
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
• Nitrate: 2–15 ppm
• Phosphate: 0.03–0.10 ppm

Feeding

Green Ricordea receive most of their nutrition through photosynthesis but may benefit from occasional supplemental feeding.

Suitable foods include:

• Reef roids
• Phytoplankton
• Zooplankton
• Mysis shrimp
• Finely chopped marine foods

Supplemental feeding can encourage faster growth and larger polyp expansion.

Placement

Green Ricordea perform best in lower to moderate light zones with gentle to moderate water movement. Excessive flow may prevent full expansion, while sudden exposure to high-intensity lighting can cause stress.

Place on isolated rocks if you wish to manage their spread, as healthy Ricordea can reproduce and form attractive colonies over time.

Common Mistakes

Excessive Lighting

New specimens can bleach when introduced directly under powerful reef lighting without acclimation.

Strong Water Flow

Too much flow can cause the polyp to remain contracted and reduce overall health.

Poor Acclimation

Sudden changes in lighting, salinity, or water chemistry can stress newly introduced Ricordea.

Frequent Relocation

Ricordea prefer stable placement and may take time to fully settle into a new location.

Overcrowding

Allow adequate space around the coral to accommodate future growth and expansion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Green Ricordea beginner friendly?

Yes. Green Ricordea are considered one of the easiest corals available and are ideal for beginner reef keepers.

How large do Green Ricordea grow?

Most polyps reach between 3–8 cm in diameter depending on lighting, feeding, and water conditions.

Are Green Ricordea reef safe?

Yes. They are considered reef safe and generally coexist well with other corals and reef inhabitants.

Can Green Ricordea live in nano aquariums?

Absolutely. Their small size and low maintenance requirements make them excellent nano reef corals.

Will Green Ricordea spread?

Yes. Healthy specimens can reproduce through natural division and gradually form colonies.

Do Green Ricordea need feeding?

They can survive without direct feeding but often show improved growth when occasionally fed.

Why Buy Green Ricordea?

• Bright fluorescent green coloration
• Beginner-friendly coral
• Excellent choice for nano reefs
• Reef safe and peaceful
• Attractive textured appearance
• Can form beautiful mushroom colonies
• Thrives under a wide range of reef conditions

Green Ricordea Mushroom Corals are a fantastic addition to any reef aquarium, providing vibrant colour, easy care, and long-term growth potential. Their striking appearance and hardy nature make them one of the most popular mushroom corals in the marine aquarium hobby.