Blasto - WYSIWYG

Blasto - WYSIWYG item Blastomussa corals are fleshy, colorful, and surprisingly hardy LPS corals known for their plump polyps, gentle movement, and strong visual impact. They’re favorites in mixed reefs because they offer big color without the aggression or difficulty of many other LPS. There are two main species in the hobby—Blastomussa wellsi and Blastomussa merletti—but both share similar care needs and aesthetic appeal. 🌈 Identity & Appearance Blastos are instantly recognizable thanks to their soft, inflated polyps and flower‑like structure. Common traits include: • Large, fleshy polyps (especially in B. wellsi) • Bright coloration: reds, greens, purples, teals, and multicolor morphs • Circular, flower‑petal appearance • Soft, gentle inflation that gives them a “puffy” look • Colonial growth—multiple polyps forming a dome or cluster B. wellsi has larger, more inflated polyps, while B. merletti has smaller, tightly packed polyps. 🌱 Growth & Behavior Blastos are moderate growers, forming new heads steadily once settled. You’ll see: • New polyps budding from the base • Colonies expanding outward in a dome shape • Color deepening with stable nutrients • Polyps inflating more fully in low‑flow areas They’re peaceful and won’t send out sweepers. 💡 Lighting Requirements Blastos prefer low to moderate light, making them perfect for shaded or lower‑rock areas. • PAR 50–120 • Too much light can cause bleaching or polyp recession • Lower light often enhances their saturation and puffiness They’re ideal for tanks with mixed lighting zones. 🌊 Flow Preferences Flow should be low and indirect. • Gentle movement keeps tissue healthy • Avoid direct jets—can cause polyps to stay closed • Stable, soft flow helps maintain full inflation Their fleshy polyps are easily irritated by strong flow. 🍤 Feeding & Nutrition Blastos love to eat, and feeding boosts growth dramatically. They accept: • Mysis • Brine • Reef plankton • LPS pellets • Small meaty blends Feeding 1–2× weekly helps with polyp size, color, and new head formation. 🧪 Water Parameters & Hardiness Blastos are fairly hardy, making them great for beginners and experts alike. They prefer: • Moderate nutrients (NO₃ 5–15 ppm, PO₄ 0.03–0.1 ppm) • Stable alkalinity (8–9 dKH) • Clean but not sterile water • Gradual acclimation to new lighting They’re more tolerant than many LPS but still dislike sudden swings. ⚔️ Aggression & Spacing Blastos are peaceful and safe to place near other corals. • No long sweepers • Minimal stinging ability • Give 1–2 inches of space for comfort They’re great neighbors in mixed reefs. ⭐ Why Reefers Love It • Bright, saturated colors • Soft, puffy, flower‑like appearance • Peaceful and easy to place • Great for low‑light zones • Hardy and rewarding for all skill levels