LPS Coral

Large Polyp Stony (LPS) corals are a diverse group of reef-building corals known for their fleshy tissue and relatively large, visible polyps compared to Small Polyp Stony (SPS) corals. Like SPS corals, LPS corals belong to the order Scleractinia and produce a hard calcium carbonate skeleton beneath their tissue.

LPS corals are popular in reef aquariums for their movement, inflated appearance, feeding response, and vibrant coloration. Many species extend feeding tentacles, particularly during the evening hours, and are capable of capturing suspended foods and meaty particles from the water column.

Common examples of LPS corals include Euphyllia, Acanthastra, Favia, Trachyphyllia. These corals can grow as branching colonies, encrusting structures, dome-shaped colonies, or large fleshy solitary polyps depending on the species.

Most LPS corals thrive in stable reef conditions with temperatures between 76–79°F, salinity around 1.025–1.026 specific gravity, and a pH between 8.0–8.4. Alkalinity is commonly maintained between 8–9 dKH, calcium around 400–450 ppm, and magnesium between 1250–1400 ppm. Since LPS corals build calcium carbonate skeletons, maintaining stable calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels is important for skeletal growth and long-term health.

Compared to many SPS corals, most LPS corals tolerate slightly higher nutrient levels and less intense lighting. Nitrate levels around 5–15 ppm and phosphate levels between 0.03–0.10 ppm are commonly acceptable for many species. However, sudden swings in alkalinity, salinity, temperature, or nutrients can still cause stress, tissue recession, or reduced polyp extension.

Most LPS corals prefer low-to-moderate or moderate indirect flow. Proper water movement helps prevent detritus accumulation while delivering oxygen and nutrients to the coral tissue. Healthy LPS corals typically display full tissue inflation, gentle movement, and strong polyp extension under appropriate flow conditions.

Excessive flow may cause tissue to retract, tear, or expose portions of the skeleton, while insufficient flow can allow waste and debris to settle around the coral. Large fleshy species such as Trachyphyllia and many Acanthastrea generally prefer gentler flow, while branching species such as Euphyllia often tolerate moderate indirect movement.

Although many LPS corals are considered easier to maintain than SPS corals, care requirements can vary considerably between species. Some are highly adaptable and suitable for newer hobbyists, while others may be sensitive to instability, aggression from neighboring corals, or poor placement within the aquarium. Researching the specific needs of each species remains important for long-term success in reef aquariums.