LPS Corals

What types of corals are considered "LPS corals"?

Are LPS corals suitable for beginners?

Many LPS corals are a great choice for beginners, especially those looking to move beyond soft corals. They tend to be more forgiving than SPS corals and don’t require extremely high lighting or dosing to thrive. Corals like Candy Cane, Duncan, and some types of Acan are a great place to start because of their hardiness and visual appeal.

What lighting do LPS corals need?

LPS corals generally prefer moderate lighting, though the ideal intensity can vary depending on the species. Some, like Acan and Trachyphyllia, do better in lower light zones, while others, like Torch or Hammer corals, can handle stronger light.

As with any coral, it’s best to start with lower light levels and gradually increase if needed to avoid stress or bleaching. For the best results, look into the lighting needs of each species before placement. You can click on individual coral types listed on Meta Reef to learn more about their ideal conditions and care recommendations.

Do LPS corals need to be fed?

LPS corals can survive on light alone through photosynthesis, but many benefit from supplemental feeding. Their large, fleshy polyps are capable of capturing food like mysis shrimp, reef roids, or other fine particulate foods. Feeding can encourage faster growth, better color, and fuller polyp extension in many species.

Not all LPS corals respond to target feeding, so it's best to research the individual needs of each type.

What water flow do LPS corals prefer?

Most LPS corals prefer low to moderate water flow. Too much flow can cause their fleshy polyps to retract or tear, while too little may lead to poor waste removal and reduced health. The ideal flow creates gentle, indirect movement that keeps the coral clean without blasting it directly.

When setting up flow for LPS corals, consider the specific needs of each species. Some, like Torch, can handle more flow than others, while species like Trachyphyllia prefer calmer waters. Adjust flow based on how the coral responds, ensuring it remains healthy and fully extended.

How should I space LPS corals in my tank?

Proper spacing is important for LPS corals. Many species extend sweeper tentacles at night that can sting neighboring corals, so it's best to leave 4 to 6 inches of space between colonies, depending on size and species. This is especially important for more aggressive types like Hammer, Torch, and Frogspawn corals.

When placing LPS corals, consider their potential full size and aggression level. Less aggressive species may tolerate closer placement, but it's always a good idea to monitor surrounding corals for signs of stress or tissue damage over time.

Can LPS corals be kept with soft corals and SPS?

Yes, LPS corals can be kept alongside soft corals and SPS in a mixed reef tank, but placement and compatibility need to be carefully managed. LPS corals often have sweeper tentacles or strong stings that can damage nearby corals, especially sensitive SPS. Soft corals, while generally less aggressive, may release chemicals that affect stony corals over time.

Are LPS corals reef safe with fish and invertebrates?

Yes, LPS corals can be kept with most fish and invertebrates. However, some species - like certain butterflyfish, angelfish, and large crabs — may nip at their fleshy polyps or disturb them. It's important to research each fish or invert before adding them to a tank with LPS.