LPS vs SPS Corals: Understanding the Differences
LPS (Large Polyp Stony) and SPS (Small Polyp Stony) describe two categories of stony corals based on polyp size—not difficulty or care requirements. Many reef keepers keep both in mixed reef setups. Understanding what these terms actually mean helps you research individual species more effectively.
LPS Corals
Large Polyp Stony corals have fleshy, often flowing polyps that extend from a calcium carbonate skeleton. Popular LPS include Euphyllia (Torch, Hammer, Frogspawn), Acans, Chalice, and Scolymia. Care requirements vary significantly—some like Duncan are beginner-friendly, while Goniopora is notoriously challenging.
Shop LPS CoralsSPS Corals
Small Polyp Stony corals have tiny polyps covering calcium carbonate skeletons that form branching, plating, or encrusting structures. Popular SPS include Acropora, Montipora, Stylophora, and Birdsnest. Montipora and Pocillopora are relatively forgiving, while many Acropora species require experienced care.
Shop SPS CoralsGeneral Characteristics
These are general tendencies—individual species vary significantly. Always research the specific coral you're considering.
| Characteristic | LPS Corals | SPS Corals |
|---|---|---|
| Polyp Size | Large, fleshy polyps (5mm–10cm+) | Tiny polyps (1–3mm) |
| Skeleton Visibility | Often hidden by extended polyps | Visible branching/plating structure |
| Typical Lighting | Low to high (species dependent) | Moderate to very high (species dependent) |
| Typical Flow | Low to moderate (most species) | Moderate to high (most species) |
| Feeding Response | Visible feeding, benefits from target feeding | Primarily photosynthetic, subtle feeding |
| Growth Form | Colonies, walls, branching (Euphyllia) | Branching, plating, encrusting |
| Movement | Flowing polyps, dramatic movement | Minimal polyp movement |
Important: Species Matter More Than Category
The LPS/SPS distinction describes polyp structure, not care difficulty. Within each category, requirements vary enormously:
LPS Examples:
- Easy: Duncan, Candy Cane, Favia
- Moderate: Torch, Hammer, Acan
- Challenging: Goniopora, some Scolymia
SPS Examples:
- Easier SPS: Montipora, Pocillopora, Birdsnest
- Moderate: Stylophora, some Acropora
- Challenging: Many Acropora, especially tenuis
Always research the specific species you're interested in. Check our coral care guides for species-specific information.
Many Reef Keepers Keep Both
Mixed reef tanks containing LPS, SPS, and soft corals are common in the hobby. Rather than choosing between categories, many hobbyists create zones within their tank: SPS colonies toward the top where light is strongest, LPS in the mid-range, and soft corals wherever they thrive.
If you're new to reef keeping, starting with hardier species from any category makes sense—a Montipora (SPS) may be easier than a Goniopora (LPS). As your tank matures and you gain experience maintaining stable parameters, you can add more demanding species from either group.
Common Species
Popular LPS Corals
Frequently Asked Questions
Can LPS and SPS corals be kept in the same tank?
Yes—mixed reef tanks containing both LPS and SPS corals are extremely common. Placement matters: SPS typically go higher in the tank where light is strongest, while many LPS do well in middle to lower positions with less direct flow. Successful mixed reefs create zones with varying light and flow intensities. The key is understanding each species' specific needs rather than treating all LPS or all SPS the same.
Are LPS corals easier than SPS corals?
It depends on the species. Some LPS like Duncan corals and Candy Cane corals are very beginner-friendly, while others like Goniopora are notoriously difficult. Similarly, some SPS like Montipora and Pocillopora are forgiving enough for beginners, while Acropora species generally require more experience. The LPS/SPS label is about polyp structure, not difficulty—always research the specific coral species before buying.
Why are some SPS corals so expensive?
Price varies enormously within both categories. Rare SPS color morphs, especially named Acropora varieties, command premium prices due to collector demand and the difficulty of maintaining specific coloration. However, common SPS like basic Montipora can cost less than many LPS. Some LPS like high-end Scolymia or designer Euphyllia can cost hundreds of dollars. Price depends more on rarity and demand than the LPS/SPS category.
What does LPS and SPS actually mean?
LPS stands for Large Polyp Stony coral—these have larger, fleshier polyps (often several millimeters to centimeters) extending from a calcium carbonate skeleton. SPS stands for Small Polyp Stony coral—these have tiny polyps (typically 1-3mm) covering a more visible stony skeleton. Both are "stony" corals that build calcium carbonate structures, unlike soft corals which lack a hard skeleton. The terms describe physical structure, not care requirements.
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