🎨🔥 Warpaint Scolymia – Australia
Scolymia australis
Quick Stats
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Care Level: Moderate
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Temperament: Semi-aggressive
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Colour Form: Vivid concentric bands of red, orange, green, and purple (warpaint pattern)
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Water Conditions: 24–27°C, dKH 8–11, pH 8.0–8.4, sg 1.024–1.026
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Family: Lobophylliidae
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Lighting: Low to Moderate
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Supplements: Calcium, Magnesium, Amino Acids, Trace Elements
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Water Flow: Low to Moderate
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Placement: Bottom Level
Overview
The Warpaint Scolymia is a visually arresting coral native to the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Scientifically known as Scolymia australis, this solitary large polyp stony (LPS) coral is known for its intense and chaotic mix of colours—often displaying concentric or swirling “warpaint” patterns in red, green, orange, and purple.
Its dome-shaped structure and pulsing, fleshy tissue make it a true showstopper in reef aquaria. The Scolymia’s slow growth and solitary nature make it both a collector’s piece and a manageable specimen for moderate-level reef keepers.
Care & Feeding
The Warpaint Scolymia is photosynthetic but responds exceptionally well to supplemental feeding. Offer small portions of enriched meaty foods such as mysis, LPS pellets, or coral blends a few times per week, particularly during evening hours when feeding tentacles are extended.
Avoid placing this coral near aggressive neighbours or in areas with high current, as tissue damage can occur. While not outwardly aggressive, it can be harmed by contact from more dominant species.
Optimal Parameters
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Alkalinity (dKH): 8–11
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Calcium (Ca): 420–460 ppm
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Magnesium (Mg): 1300–1400 ppm
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Nitrate (NO₃): 2–10 ppm
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Phosphate (PO₄): 0.01–0.05 ppm
Placement
Place the Scolymia on the bottom substrate of the tank, ensuring a flat and stable surface where water flow is low to moderate. Avoid excessive light exposure, which can lead to fading or bleaching. Target feeding in low-flow areas helps with nutrient uptake and colour retention.
This coral appreciates a calm environment with good water quality, and it rewards attentive care with intense colouration and gentle pulsing movement.
🖌️🧡 Nature’s Brushstroke – The Warpaint Scolymia
The Australian Warpaint Scolymia is a radiant coral that turns your reef into a canvas. Its colours, shaped by nature and enhanced by optimal reefkeeping, make it a prized specimen—perfect for aquarists who want both drama and simplicity in a single coral.