Torch Coral Care Guide
Looking to add movement and glow to your reef tank? The Torch coral (Euphyllia glabrescens) is a stunning LPS coral known for its long, flowing tentacles and vibrant coloration. Here’s how to care for your Torch and keep it thriving.
What Is a Torch Coral?
The Torch coral, also known as Euphyllia glabrescens, is a large polyp stony coral native to the Indo-Pacific. It features long, fleshy tentacles with glowing tips that sway in the current, resembling a flickering torch. This coral is a favorite among reef hobbyists for its beauty and moderate care requirements.
Ideal Tank Conditions
- Lighting: Moderate (80–150 PAR). Too much light can cause bleaching.
- Water Flow: Moderate, indirect flow to allow tentacle movement without damage.
- Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
- Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
- pH: 8.1–8.4
- Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
- Calcium: 400–450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
Placement Tips
Place your Torch coral in the lower to middle areas of your tank. Ensure it has plenty of space—Torch corals have long sweeper tentacles and can sting nearby corals. Avoid direct flow and aggressive neighbors.
Feeding & Nutrition
While Euphyllia glabrescens is photosynthetic, it benefits from occasional feeding. Offer:
- Frozen mysis or brine shrimp
- Reef Roids or powdered coral foods
- Target feeding 1–2 times per week
Growth & Fragging
Torch corals grow by budding new heads. Use bone cutters to frag between branches. Handle with care to avoid damaging the fleshy polyps. Allow frags to heal in a low-flow area before returning to the display tank.
Common Issues
- Recession: Often caused by poor water quality or excessive flow.
- Bleaching: Reduce lighting intensity and check parameters.
- Brown Jelly Disease: Remove affected tissue and perform iodine dips.
