❤️🔥 St. Thomas Super Red Rhodactis
Rhodactis sanctithomae – Ultra Red Caribbean Mushroom Coral
🔹 Quick Stats
Care Level: Easy to Intermediate
Temperament: Peaceful (semi-aggressive if in direct contact with other mushrooms)
Colour Form: A striking Caribbean Rhodactis with a deep crimson to cherry-red base and metallic undertones that shimmer under blue and actinic lighting. The surface features large, textured vesicles that create a 3D “volcanic” pattern, reflecting light like molten lava across its fleshy disk. Under full-spectrum LEDs, this coral glows in radiant scarlet and magenta hues — one of the most coveted red morphs in the genus.
Water Conditions: 24–27 °C, dKH 8–11, pH 8.0–8.4, sg 1.024–1.026
Family: Discosomatidae
Lighting: Low to Moderate – preserves deep red pigmentation
Water Flow: Gentle to Moderate, indirect
Placement: Sandbed or lower rockwork in low-flow areas
🧬 Overview
The St. Thomas Super Red Rhodactis (Rhodactis sanctithomae) is a rare and highly sought-after mushroom coral hailing from the reefs of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Renowned for its intense red coloration, large polyp size, and distinct texture, this species brings a bold splash of fire to any reefscape.
Its unique vesicle pattern and thick, fleshy tissue give it a sculptural presence — expanding into a dramatic dome that glows under actinic light. Ideal for collectors who appreciate rare Caribbean species with both visual power and durability.
🍽️ Care & Feeding
Primarily photosynthetic, but benefits from occasional feeding with fine coral foods or meaty micro-plankton (Reef Roids, Coral Frenzy, Mysis).
Prefers moderate nutrient levels and slightly shaded placement for best red intensity.
Avoid intense, direct lighting which may cause fading or retraction.
📈 Optimal Parameters
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Alkalinity (dKH) | 8–11 |
| Calcium (Ca) | 400–440 ppm |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 1250–1350 ppm |
| Nitrate (NO₃) | 5–15 ppm |
| Phosphate (PO₄) | 0.03–0.1 ppm |
📍 Placement
Position on the sandbed or lower shaded rock zones with gentle, swirling flow. Provide space from other mushrooms — Rhodactis sanctithomae can grow large and overtake nearby tissue.
Ideal for mixed or soft coral systems seeking strong contrast and texture variety.
❤️🔥 St. Thomas Super Red Rhodactis
A fiery jewel from the Caribbean — bold, sculptural, and glowing with volcanic red brilliance.