LPS Corals

Buy LPS Corals – Large Polyps, Intense Colours

LPS corals (Large Polyp Stony Corals) are stony corals with large, fleshy polyps and are among the most popular corals in the reef aquarium. Species such as Euphyllia, Acanthastrea, Scolymia, Trachyphyllia or Catalaphyllia delight with bright colours, striking patterns and visible polyp movement. Many LPS corals are hardier than SPS corals and are therefore also suitable for advanced beginners.

Care of LPS corals

For successful care of LPS corals, stable water parameters are crucial. Proven values are 24–26 °C, a salinity of 34–35 PSU, a carbonate hardness of 7–9 dKH, 420–450 mg/l calcium and 1250–1350 mg/l magnesium. Slightly detectable nitrate and phosphate levels promote healthy tissue and strong colours – water that is too nutrient-poor, on the other hand, leads to tissue loss in many LPS.

Light and flow

Most LPS corals prefer moderate light between 80 and 200 PAR and low to moderate, alternating flow. Solitary corals such as Scolymia, Trachyphyllia or Fungia are best placed in the lower part of the aquarium or directly on the substrate. New corals should be acclimated slowly to the lighting.

Feeding

LPS corals obtain part of their energy from their zooxanthellae but readily accept additional food. Targeted feeding with mysis, artemia or special LPS coral food once or twice a week promotes growth, colour and the formation of new heads.

Placement and sweeper tentacles

Many LPS – especially Euphyllia, Acanthastrea and Lobophyllia – extend sweeper tentacles at night with which they sting neighbouring corals. You should therefore leave enough space between the individual colonies.

LPS Corals at Premium Reefing

At Premium Reefing you will find hand-selected WYSIWYG LPS corals – you receive exactly the animal shown in the photos. All corals go through at least 14 days of quarantine, are carefully packed and shipped across Europe. Choose your preferred genus above and discover rare colour morphs for your reef aquarium.