Hammer Corals

Hammer Corals

Fimbriaphyllia spp.

💧Moderate Flow
☀️Moderate Light
Intermediate Difficulty
Hammer Coral is a large polyp stony (LPS) coral known for its distinctive hammer, or anchor-shaped tentacles. These corals fall into two main categories based on growth form: branching (F. paraancora) and wall (F. ancora). Their fleshy polyps sway gently in the current, adding movement and vibrant color to reef aquascapes. Available in a wide range of morphs - from neon green and gold to metallic and bicolor varieties - hammer corals are among the most popular LPS choices for mixed reef tanks. While moderately hardy, they thrive in systems with stable parameters and appropriate lighting and flow. Branching types are more forgiving and easier to frag, whereas wall varieties grow as a continuous structure and are more difficult to propagate.

Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumCnidaria
ClassAnthozoa
OrderScleractinia
FamilyEuphylliidae
GenusFimbriaphyllia
SpeciesMultiple, including:
  • Fimbriaphyllia ancora
  • Fimbriaphyllia paraancora

Hammer corals were previously classified in the Euphyllia genus but have since been reclassified under Fimbriaphyllia. Many hobbyists and vendors still refer to them as Euphyllia in listings and discussions.

Quick Care Tips

Lighting
Moderate
Low
Moderate
High
Flow
Moderate
Low
Moderate
High
Difficulty
Intermediate
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hammer corals be place near each other?

Yes - Hammer corals can typically be placed near other Hammer varieties. However, this isn’t guaranteed so keep an eye on them after placement to ensure they play nice together. This is not true for other species. Hammer corals have long, stinging sweeper tentacles that can damage other nearby corals. It's best to give them plenty of space to avoid aggression toward neighbors.

Do I have to feed my Hammer Coral?

While not required to directly target feed, hammer corals will benefit from occasional supplemental feeding. They are primarily photosynthetic, but offering small meaty foods like mysis shrimp or reef-specific blends from time to time can promote faster growth and coloration, especially in lower-nutrient systems.

Why is my Hammer Coral not extending?

If your hammer coral’s polyps aren't extending, it could be reacting to stress from water quality, lighting, or flow. Common causes include sudden parameter swings (especially alkalinity), excessive flow blasting the coral directly, or light that’s too intense or recently changed. Other possibilities include pest irritation, recent handling, or nearby aggressive corals. Check for stable conditions, ensure moderate indirect flow, and give it time to settle if recently introduced or moved.

Marketplace Overview

Current Listings
505
Lowest Price
$20
Highest Price
$650
Median Price
$76

Shop over 505 Hammer Corals

Top Sellers

User Avatar
Queen City Corals
104 Hammer Listings
User Avatar
Corals.com
80 Hammer Listings
User Avatar
TRSC Aquatics
61 Hammer Listings
User Avatar
Reef Exclusive
57 Hammer Listings
User Avatar
SeaCo Corals
42 Hammer Listings
User Avatar
Vivid Aquariums
35 Hammer Listings

How to Choose a Healthy Hammer Coral

  • Polyp Health:

    Look for full, inflated polyps with good extension. Avoid frags that are tightly withdrawn, show excessive mucus, or have damaged tissue.

  • Tissue Health:

    Inspect for firm, fully inflated polyps that extend well during the day. Tissue should cover the skeleton completely, especially around the edges. Receding tissue or visible white skeleton around the base can be a sign of stress, damage, or poor water conditions at the source.

  • Branching vs. Wall:

    Branching hammers are easier to frag and generally more forgiving for beginners. Wall hammers tend to grow more slowly but can form impressive, continuous colonies. The choice often comes down to preference — and there’s nothing wrong with keeping both.

You May Also Like

Explore All LPS Corals

What is Meta Reef?

Meta Reef isn't a company — just a fellow reefer trying to make it easier to buy and sell coral. Browse local listings or search across 20+ popular stores in one place. Want to sell? Add your own frags and start listing in minutes — totally free.

Sell for Free

Add your corals to the marketplace — it's fast, free, and made for reefers. List your frags and start selling today. No fees, no catch - just an easier way to sell.