Merulina (Ruffled Ridge / Cabbage Coral)

​Looking for a true showstopper to elevate the upper levels of your aquascape? The Merulina coral, often referred to as the Ruffled Ridge or Cabbage Coral, is a mesmerizing and highly sought-after piece for experienced reef keepers.

​What makes the Merulina so special is its incredible growth transformation. It begins life as an encrusting coral, but as it matures and thrives, it grows outward into spectacular, fan-like ruffled plates and intricate skeletal ridges. Usually sporting brilliant contrasting colors between its deep valleys and raised edges, this coral truly pops under blue actinic lighting.

​At UKReef Hampshire, we love the Merulina for hobbyists who want to add complex, architectural shapes and bold textures to a mature reef.

​Quick Care Guide:

​Care Level: Intermediate to Advanced

​Temperament: Aggressive (This coral plays hardball! It deploys long sweeper tentacles at night to gather food, so be sure to leave a few inches of clear real estate between the Merulina and its neighbors).

​Placement: Middle to Top. Secure it where it has plenty of physical space to grow its outward-reaching plates.

​Lighting: High. To maintain its striking colors and support its calcified skeletal growth, place it in a well-lit area of the tank.

​Water Flow: Moderate. It needs enough alternating flow to prevent detritus from settling in its ruffled valleys, but avoid a direct, blasting current that could damage its tissue.

​Feeding: Highly photosynthetic, but it will thrive when supplemented. Target feed micro-plankton or zooplankton solutions when its small tentacles are visible at night.