Is this coral suitable for beginners?

It's generally considered beginner-friendly and is often recommended for those trying LPS corals for the first time. That said, basic care such as maintaining stable water quality is still required.

Is this species regulated under CITES?

Branching Hammer Coral is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.

Can it be kept alongside other corals?

Yes, it can be kept with other corals, but since its tentacles extend quite far, adequate spacing from neighbors is important. Contact can lead to stinging conflicts.

What lighting level does it need?

It prefers moderate lighting. Overly intense light can cause polyp retraction or color loss, so adjust its placement accordingly.

Can I frag it myself?

Because of its branching skeleton, it's relatively easy to frag branch by branch. It's best done with proper tools and careful aftercare of the cut surfaces.

Branching Hammer Coral

The Branching Hammer Coral (Euphyllia parancora) is a branching-skeleton member of the hammer-tentacle Euphyllia group, whose polyp tips swell into a distinctive hammerhead shape. Because each branch can be cut and propagated individually, it's a popular choice for fragging and building out a collection over time. It prefers moderate lighting and gentle water flow, so it doesn't need an intense or turbulent spot in the tank. With its slow, swaying tentacles offering classic LPS appeal, it's often recommended as a good starting point for keepers new to LPS corals.

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Branching Hammer Coral key facts

Care level: Beginner-friendly
Temperature: 24〜27℃
Diet: Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus zooplankton feeding
Lighting: Moderate LED lighting; acclimate gradually because strong light causes colour loss.
Flow & Placement: Gentle low to moderate flow; a strong direct jet keeps the tentacles from opening.
Water Temperature & Quality: Keep 24-27 C with KH 7-12 and calcium 400-450 ppm, held stable.
Feeding: Feeding zooplankton or pellets once or twice a week improves growth and colour.
Notes: Nocturnal sweeper tentacles sting neighbours. As a scleractinian it is CITES Appendix II.

TraitsLPSHammer coralFraggableCITES II

About Branching Hammer Coral

The Branching Hammer Coral is a branching Euphyllia species that thrives under moderate lighting and gentle flow, making it a popular pick for first-time LPS keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Branching Hammer Coral

1Moderate Lighting Preferred
Overly intense lighting can cause the polyps to retract or lose color over time. Choose a spot in the tank that isn't in the most intense light, and consider its brightness relative to neighboring corals.
2Keep Water Flow Gentle
Strong direct flow can prevent the tentacles from extending fully, affecting both feeding and appearance. Place it where water movement is gentle and indirect rather than in a strong current.
3Easy to Frag by Branch
Its branching skeleton means mature colonies can be divided branch by branch to create new frags. Use proper tools for cutting and take care with aftercare of the cut surfaces.
4Give It Space From Neighbors
Its tentacles can extend quite far, and contact with neighboring corals may trigger stinging conflicts. Leave enough space when placing it, accounting for future growth.
5Prioritize Stable Water Quality
Euphyllia species tend to be sensitive to sudden shifts in water parameters. Regularly checking calcium and alkalinity levels and avoiding large swings helps support long-term health.
6Acclimate Gradually After Arrival
It's common for the tentacles to stay retracted right after transport, gradually opening up over the following days. Avoid strong flow or lighting immediately after placement and adjust gradually while observing its condition.
7Observe Feeding Behavior
Whether the tentacles extend fully is one useful indicator of overall condition. Regular observation helps you notice changes in extension or coloration early.

Frequently asked questions about Branching Hammer Coral

Q.Is this coral suitable for beginners?: A.It's generally considered beginner-friendly and is often recommended for those trying LPS corals for the first time. That said, basic care such as maintaining stable water quality is still required.
Q.Is this species regulated under CITES?: A.Branching Hammer Coral is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.
Q.Can it be kept alongside other corals?: A.Yes, it can be kept with other corals, but since its tentacles extend quite far, adequate spacing from neighbors is important. Contact can lead to stinging conflicts.
Q.What lighting level does it need?: A.It prefers moderate lighting. Overly intense light can cause polyp retraction or color loss, so adjust its placement accordingly.
Q.Can I frag it myself?: A.Because of its branching skeleton, it's relatively easy to frag branch by branch. It's best done with proper tools and careful aftercare of the cut surfaces.