Euphyllia Coral is a popular genus of LPS corals that includes species like Euphyllia paradivisa (Hammer Coral), Euphyllia ancora (Frogspawn Coral), and Euphyllia divisa (Torch Coral). These corals are commonly found in reef aquariums due to their beautiful, flowing tentacles and relatively easy care, making them a favorite for both novice and experienced reef keepers.
Characteristics of Euphyllia Corals:
Appearance:
Tentacles: Euphyllia corals have large, fleshy polyps with long, vibrant tentacles that can vary in color, including green, purple, yellow, and pink. The tentacles move in a flowing, wave-like motion in the water, which creates a stunning display in the aquarium.
Colony Structure: Euphyllia corals grow in branching or columnar structures, with multiple polyps connected at the base. The branching forms can resemble a hammer, torch, or frogspawn, hence their names.
Behavior:
These corals are photosynthetic (contain zooxanthellae, symbiotic algae) and rely on light for nutrition, but they also benefit from supplemental feeding, especially in lower-light environments.
Euphyllia corals are generally peaceful but can have stinging tentacles, so they should be kept away from other corals and invertebrates that are sensitive to their sting.
Aquarium Requirements:
Lighting:
Moderate to High Lighting: Euphyllia corals require moderate to high light levels, typically from T5, LED, or Metal Halide lights. They thrive with around 150–250 PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) intensity, but they can adapt to slightly lower light levels.
Be cautious about placing them too close to intense lighting, as it may bleach the coral.
Water Flow:
Euphyllia corals prefer gentle to moderate water flow. Strong currents can cause their delicate tentacles to become damaged, while too little flow may lead to debris accumulation around the coral.
Gentle water flow will allow the tentacles to extend and sway naturally.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C).
Salinity: 1.023–1.025 specific gravity.
pH: 8.1–8.4.
Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH.
Calcium: 400–450 ppm.
Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm.
Nitrate & Phosphate: Keep nitrate levels below 5–10 ppm and phosphate levels low (ideally below 0.05 ppm) to prevent algae growth that can outcompete the coral for resources.
Tank Size:
While Euphyllia corals can adapt to smaller aquariums (around 20 gallons), it’s better to keep them in tanks that are at least 30–40 gallons to allow enough space for them to grow and ensure stable water parameters.
Placement in the Tank:
Space: Euphyllia corals need plenty of space between them and other corals due to their stinging tentacles. A larger area of open sand or rock works best for them.
Height: Position them in areas with moderate to high light, usually at mid to upper levels of the tank.
Feeding:
Euphyllia corals are primarily photosynthetic, but they can also capture zooplankton and small food particles.
Supplemental feeding can be done with mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or plankton either directly or through broadcast feeding. They may also catch smaller foods when broadcast feeding is done.
Tank Mates:
Euphyllia corals can be kept with other peaceful corals but should be kept away from aggressive species such as Montipora, Acropora, or any corals with stinging tentacles.
Avoid placing them with fish that may pick at the tentacles, such as butterflyfish or angelfish.
Invertebrates: They are generally safe with most reef-safe invertebrates like cleaner shrimp, hermit crabs, and snails.
Acclimation:
Euphyllia corals are sensitive to changes in water parameters. When introducing them to a new tank, ensure a proper slow acclimation process to avoid shock, especially when changing salinity or temperature.
Maintenance:
Regular water changes (10–20% weekly or bi-weekly) are essential to maintain water quality and provide trace elements needed by corals.
Keep an eye on algae growth, which can quickly compete with corals for light and nutrients.
By meeting these requirements, Euphyllia corals can thrive in your aquarium and provide beautiful, dynamic color and movement.