Rhodactis inchoata – Rhodactis Mushroom Coral

Rhodactis inchoata is a coral animal belonging to the Discosomatidae family, often referred to as a "mushroom coral" in the hobby. It forms disc-shaped, soft polyps, often with a bubbly or knobby surface. In a reef aquarium, this coral is particularly known for its striking colors and its ability to form multiple individuals in the same colony over time.

Rhodactis corals generally thrive in moderate or slightly calmer flow and low to medium lighting. Too strong a current can prevent the polyps from fully opening. Under good conditions, the polyps expand significantly, and the coral can spread by dividing or by growing new individuals in the vicinity.

The species occurs in several color forms. Typical shades include green, brown, red, purple, and various multicolored combinations. Some individuals may develop striking bubble-like structures on their surface, often referred to as "bounce" style in the hobby.

Characteristics

disc-shaped mushroom-type coral

soft and often bubbly or knobby surface

can spread by dividing into multiple individuals

adaptable and generally quite hardy species

color forms range from green and brown to bright multicolored shades

Care Requirements

Feature Recommendation

Difficulty easy – medium

Lighting low – medium

Flow low – moderate

Placement in aquarium bottom – mid-level

Growth rate moderate

Good to know

Rhodactis corals may occasionally move slowly across the aquarium surface in search of a suitable spot. They can also reproduce by dividing or by shedding small tissue fragments from which new polyps develop.

Suitability

suitable for reef aquariums

generally compatible with fish and most invertebrates

a good choice for beginners too