Green Ricordia Mushroom

Green Ricordea mushrooms are a popular choice for saltwater reef aquariums. Here’s some information on them:

### Overview
– **Scientific Name**: Ricordea florida
– **Common Names**: Green Ricordea Mushroom, Green Ricordea Florida
– **Family**: Ricordeidae
– **Origin**: Caribbean, especially Florida and surrounding areas

### Appearance
– **Color**: Bright green with variations in shades; can also have hints of orange, blue, or purple.
– **Shape**: Dome-shaped with multiple small, bulbous tentacles.
– **Size**: Can grow up to 3 inches in diameter.

### Habitat and Care
– **Lighting**: Moderate to high; prefers LED, T5, or Metal Halide lighting.
– **Water Flow**: Low to moderate; too much flow can cause stress.
– **Water Parameters**:
– **Temperature**: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
– **pH**: 8.1-8.4
– **Specific Gravity**: 1.023-1.025
– **Alkalinity**: 8-12 dKH
– **Placement**: Place on rock work or substrate, ensuring moderate water flow and adequate lighting.
– **Feeding**: Mostly photosynthetic but benefits from occasional feedings of small meaty foods like brine shrimp or coral foods.

### Behavior and Compatibility
– **Aggression**: Generally peaceful; can be kept with a variety of other corals.
– **Propagation**: Can propagate through division or fragmentation; new mushrooms will form from the base of the original.

### Benefits and Considerations
– **Aesthetics**: Adds vibrant color and unique texture to the reef tank.
– **Maintenance**: Relatively low-maintenance, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
– **Compatibility**: Can be kept with other corals, fish, and invertebrates that are not overly aggressive.

### Additional Tips
– Ensure stable water parameters to prevent stress and promote healthy growth.
– Regularly monitor for signs of pests or disease.
– Gradually acclimate to lighting changes to avoid shock.

Green Ricordea mushrooms are an excellent addition to a saltwater reef tank, providing both aesthetic appeal and ease of care.