I have a conundrum...

[usatennisfan]

Recently I purchased a Xenia from my LFS that also has two Ricordea mushrooms on the same rock. I'm in a pickle because I know not where to put the rock in my tank considering they have pretty different requirements when it comes to water movement, lighting, ect... Right now I have the rock to the side of the water column to more favor the Xenia; the mushrooms are on the opposite side of the rock so the current doesn't seem to be too strong on them. I guess my question is, what should I do? Do you think the position on the rock is best where it is for both corals to thrive? Should I move it? Should I frag it and separate them? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[gflat65]

They can both adapt to the same conditions. Both can also move around if not happy (leaving a trail of little Xenia and mushrooms in some cases). Both can over time take over an aquarium (not an issue unless tastes change over time to different corals). I generally start out with Xenia on rock islands separated from the main rock (unless you want it to cover the main rockwork, in which case, put it somewhere connected and let it do its thing). Assuming healthy animals, if they have moderate lighting and flow, both will be fine. They can be very adaptable.

 

[Jack01]

The above post sums everything up, good advice!

 

[kingfisher62]

LR is actually pretty soft take out the rock use a hammer and chisel to break the rock in two pieces. Put each where it is best suited.