LPS Corals

Masterpieces of the Saltwater Aquarium

Introduction to LPS Corals

LPS corals are a group of stony corals nicknamed by reef aquarium hobbyists for their large polyps. They are also known for having sweeping tentacles, excellent hardiness and oftentimes fast growth. The LPS group includes corals such as Acanthastrea, Blastomussa, Hammer, Torch, Frogspawn, Bubble Coral, Echinophyllia, Scolymia, Platygyra, Lobophyllia and many others. As you can see, it is quite a diverse group but many of the basic care requirements remain the same.

Caring for LPS Corals

euphyllia paradivisa

Most Large-Polyped Stony corals are not difficult to care for, given adequate water quality and lighting. Typical reef aquarium water parameters will suffice:





Lighting

Tubastrea coral

LPS corals, for the most part, will thrive under medium to strong lighting. Power compact, VHO, T5, and Metal Halide lighting will all do the job. If not supplied with enough light, your LPS corals may lose some of their color. However, after some time under appropriate lighting, the color should return. A mixed spectrum of 10,000K and actinic bulbs will bring out the best colors and health in (most of) these corals.

LPS Coral Propagation

Propagation of these corals can be difficult, and may even include.... power tools! Their skeletons are calcareous and, as such, many will require the use of a rotary tool. These species/genera include (but are not limited to): Euphyllia

Others, such as the branching Euphylliids, can be fragged using a good pair of pliers or even by hand. Good candidates for this type of propagation include:

Learn More about LPS Corals

See the following sections of LPSCorals.com for more information:


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