LPS coral for reef aquariums

Large-polyp stony corals combine a hard skeleton with fleshy living tissue. Choose them by their individual feeding, lighting and spacing needs: a Blastomussa in a sheltered location and a long-tentacled torch require different layouts even though both are called LPS.

Many LPS suit moderate lighting and indirect water movement, but always follow the selected type's care. Support the skeleton securely and leave enough space for the coral to inflate without rubbing against rock. Test and maintain consistent calcium, alkalinity and magnesium as skeletal growth changes demand.

Photosynthesis supports many popular LPS, with small marine foods useful for types that capture them. Match food size and frequency to the coral rather than feeding every colony identically. Account for sweeper tentacles and other stinging interactions, including after dark, and adjust the layout as the surrounding reef grows.