St. Thomas Mushroom Care Guide
Discosoma sanctithomae is a hardy Caribbean mushroom corallimorph with a bumpy disc, well suited as a beginner reef invertebrate.
Overview
Discosoma sanctithomae is a Caribbean mushroom corallimorph distinguished by a bumpy, warty disc surface. It is available in green, blue, brown and red. As a member of the order Corallimorpharia, it is related to both corals and anemones, is disc-shaped and produces large amounts of mucus.
Taxonomy
- Family: Discosomatidae (WoRMS: Discosomidae)
- Genus: Discosoma (Rüppell & Leuckart, 1828)
- Scientific name: Discosoma sanctithomae
- Note: WoRMS lists this name as a synonym of Rhodactis osculifera
Habitat
This corallimorph occurs on Caribbean reefs. It absorbs nutrients produced by symbiotic zooxanthellae in its tissues and gathers particles from the water, so photosynthesis is its primary energy source.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 40 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- Salinity: 1.024-1.026 SG
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- dKH (alkalinity): 8-11
- Lighting: low to moderate; avoid over-illumination
- Flow: low; best extension in near-stagnant water
Diet
It relies mainly on photosynthesis via zooxanthellae, supplemented by absorbing dissolved nutrients and capturing fine particles. Heavy direct feeding is generally unnecessary.
Propagation
Mushrooms heal well from cutting and grow quickly, making them suitable for early propagation attempts. Reattaching cuttings is the main difficulty; secure each piece to substrate that is then glued into place because mushrooms can detach and move.
Compatibility
It is reef-safe and compatible with most reef fish and invertebrates. Butterflyfish that nip soft-bodied corals should be avoided.