The Mesmerizing Corals Of The Genus Euphyllia

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The Mesmerising Corals Of The Genus Euphyllia

Many marine species can be found in Coral Reefs, but for us anyway, Large Polyped Stony (LPS) Corals, are among the most fascinating inhabitants. Due to their magnificent look and ease of maintenance, the genus Euphyllia stands out among coral families as a longtime favourite of us Aquarium Keepers. These beautiful corals, including the varieties available to us, and maintenance needs, will be covered in this blog post.

Euphyllia In The Wild

For their distinctive tentacle formations that resemble hammers or anchors, euphyllia corals, also known as Hammer corals, Frogspawn corals, or Torch corals, earned their common names.

Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines are just a few of the countries in the Indo-Pacific region where these corals can be found in great abundance. They often live in shallow reef habitats in the wild, where they may get plenty of light and a moderate amount of water movement.

Varieties of Euphyllia

Euphyllia corals come in a variety of species, with Euphyllia ancora, Euphyllia divisa, and Euphyllia parancora being the most frequently encountered in the aquarium trade.

Hammer Corals (Euphyllia ancora, parancora)

The Hammer Coral, Or Anchor coral, is a fairly common species of Euphyllia found almost exclusively in the Indo-Pacific. Its unusual tentacles, which resemble the heads of hammers, or anchors, gave them their name.

Hammer Corals can be either walled or branching, as Euphyllia ancora and Euphyllia parancora respectively. In ideal conditions these corals grow rapidly, generally preferring low to medium flow and low to medium indirect light.

Frogspawn Corals (Euphyllia divisa, paradivisa)

The Frogspawn Corals, Euphyllia divisa and paradivisa, have thicker, shorter tentacles that mimic a mass of frogspawn. These corals often attain bright fluorescent colouration and can tolerate brighter, indirect lighting than E.ancora.

An uncommon variety of Frogspawn, Euphyllia yaeyamaensis, has become more common in recent years and sports thick, club shaped tentacles with numerous pads.

Torch Corals (Euphyllia Glabrescens)

Torch corals are some of the most beautiful corals in this hobby, boasting an incredible anemone-like appearance, rare colour morphs and bright tentacle tips. The most highly sought after varieties of Euphyllia are found in this genus, such as the 24K Golds pictured above, the Dragon Soul Torch and the rare Holy Grail Torch. Torches tolerate brighter, indirect lighting and low to medium flow.

Are Euphyllia Corals Difficult to Look After?

Euphyllia can be a fantastic choice for those just getting into LPS corals, however, do not neglect water parameters. These corals demand steady water conditions, low to moderate water flow, and decent low to medium lighting. Due to the fact that these corals are Hard Corals, it is crucial to maintain appropriate levels of Alkalinity, Calcium and Magnesium. Improper handling of the coral can also cause damage to the skeleton and surrounding flesh ring, which can lead to disease, so beware when placing or moving these corals.

Recommended Parameters: Calcium 420-450ppm, Magnesium 1350-1500ppm, Alkalinity between 8.3 and 10 dKH and Salinity 1.025 SG.

For continued good health, maintain good levels of Iodine and Strontium, either through regular water changes, dosing or ICP tests.

Do I Need to Feed Euphyllia Corals?

Whilst not the most demanding when it comes to food, Euphyllia do need to be fed from time to time. Little bits of shrimp, krill, or other meaty items can be fed to Euphyllia corals, among other things, once a week. The addition of Amino Acid Solutions such as Red Sea Reef Energy AB+ are an excellent way to supplement these corals' diets.

Will My Euphyllia Reproduce?

The ability of Euphyllia corals to reproduce asexually as well as sexually is one of their distinguishing characteristics. They sexually reproduce in the wild by releasing eggs and sperm, which come together to generate larvae. They can reproduce asexually in aquariums through a process known as budding, in which tiny new heads form from the current coral. Additionally, new heads can appear in the tank seemingly out of nowhere due to sexual reproduction in the water column.

Conclusion

Euphyllia Corals make a truly wonderful addition to the aquarium with their mesmerizing movement and colour. Whilst there is some care to be taken with maintenance and handling, Aquarium Keepers can admire the beauty and wonder of these unique LPS Corals in their own homes.