LPS coral
LPS coral means large polyp stony coral: hard corals with big, fleshy polyps growing from a calcium-carbonate skeleton. They sit between the forgiving soft corals and the demanding SPS corals, which makes many of them a sensible first stony coral. This guide explains what they are and how to keep them.
What LPS coral is
Like all stony corals, LPS corals build a skeleton and live as colonies. The difference is scale: their polyps are large and full of tissue, so the coral looks soft even though it is hard underneath. Many LPS corals expand and contract noticeably over the day, which is normal behaviour rather than a sign of trouble.
Most LPS corals also host zooxanthellae, the microscopic algae that feed them through photosynthesis. That is why placement and lighting matter: too little light and the coral has less energy, too much and it can bleach.
Common LPS corals
- Brain corals. Rounded colonies with maze-like ridges. Hardy and popular for beginners.
- Candy cane or trumpet corals. Clusters of tubular polyps that grow into heads. Also forgiving.
- Hammer, frogspawn and torch corals. Branching corals with long, tipped tentacles. Beautiful, but the sweeper tentacles some extend need space from neighbouring corals.
- Duncan corals. Branching, with prominent polyps, and often among the easier LPS to keep.
For more on the structure-building side of the hobby, see the SPS coral guide.
What LPS corals need
- Moderate, stable conditions. LPS corals are more tolerant than SPS but still do best with steady salinity, temperature and mineral levels.
- Moderate lighting. Many prefer less intense light than SPS corals, and some do best lower in the tank. Match the coral's needs to its placement.
- Gentle to moderate flow. Enough movement to bring food and carry waste away, but not so strong that it tears the fleshy polyps.
- Space. Many LPS corals extend sweeper tentacles at night to defend their space. Give them room so they do not sting neighbours.
- Occasional feeding. Many capture small food, so target-feeding can help growth. Feed in moderation so nutrients stay controlled.
Placement is the main skill with LPS corals. Settle a new coral on the sand or low on the rock first, let it open, then move it to its long-term spot once you can see how it responds to the light and flow.
Buying LPS coral
LPS corals are sold as whole colonies or as frags grown from a larger colony. Ask the seller what light and flow the coral has been kept under, so you can match it at home and avoid shocking the animal. Check the skeleton is intact and the tissue is full, and look for pests before adding anything to your tank.
If you are new to corals altogether, start with the beginner corals guide and build up to stony species once your tank is stable.
Finding LPS corals in Canada
- Aquarium stores in Ontario
- Aquarium stores in Quebec
- Aquarium stores in Nova Scotia
- Search the whole Canadian directory
LPS coral: common questions
What does LPS coral mean?
LPS stands for large polyp stony. LPS corals are hard corals with large, fleshy polyps and a calcium-carbonate skeleton, usually growing as separate rounded or branching colonies.
Are LPS corals good for beginners?
Many are, especially the hardier brain, candy cane and hammer types. They tolerate a wider range of conditions than most SPS corals and are a common first stony coral.
How is LPS coral different from SPS coral?
Both build skeletons. LPS corals have larger, meatier polyps and generally grow as distinct colonies, while SPS corals have tiny polyps and often grow in fine branches or plates. LPS corals are usually the more forgiving of the two.
Do LPS corals need to be fed?
They get energy from light through the algae in their tissue, but many also capture food. Target-feeding small pieces of suitable food can help them grow, so long as the water quality is not allowed to suffer.
Where can I buy LPS corals in Canada?
Look for a reef store that stocks corals and can tell you what conditions the colony has been kept under. Browse the Rainforest Reef directory by province and use the saltwater and coral label.
Keep reading
General information only. Confirm livestock availability and care needs with a local reef store.