Lobophyllia Corymbosa

Lobophyllia Corymbosa key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Temperature

24〜27℃

Diet

Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus meaty foods

Lighting

Moderate LED lighting; avoid abrupt changes in intensity and acclimate gradually.

Flow & Placement

Low to moderate flow. Direct jets damage the fleshy tissue, so place it on sand or low rock.

Water Temperature & Quality

Keep 24-27 C with KH 7-12 and calcium 400-450 ppm, held stable.

Feeding

It extends feeding tentacles at night; target-feed minced fish or shrimp onto the oral disc to promote growth.

Notes

Separate polyps make contact less likely, but still space it from other LPS. As a scleractinian it is CITES Appendix II.

About Lobophyllia Corymbosa

Lobophyllia corymbosa is an LPS coral from the Red Sea to Indo-Pacific shallows, known for its separate, cylinder-shaped polyps. Here's what to know before keeping this intermediate-level species.

7 things to know before welcoming a Lobophyllia Corymbosa

1. 1Distinct Cylindrical Polyps

   Each polyp forms as a separate, cylinder-like dome, unlike Lobophyllia hemprichii where the valleys run together continuously. The polyps also inflate differently between day and night, so the coral looks different depending on when you view it.

2. 2Stinging Tentacles

   Like many LPS corals, it can extend long sweeper tentacles at night that irritate neighboring corals. Leave plenty of space between it and other corals so they never make direct contact.

3. 3Avoid Strong Direct Flow

   Its fleshy tissue can be damaged by strong, direct water flow hitting it continuously. Place it where gentle, diffused flow reaches instead.

4. 4Moderate Lighting Preferred

   This coral tends to prefer moderate rather than intense lighting. Start it in a lower-light spot and gradually acclimate it as you observe its condition.

5. 5Occasional Feeding Helps

   It naturally extends its tentacles at night to catch small food particles. Occasionally offering finely chopped seafood or prepared coral foods can support its condition.

6. 6Stable Water Parameters

   As with other LPS corals, stable temperature, salinity, calcium, and alkalinity are essential to keeping it healthy. Sudden shifts in water parameters can cause the polyps to shrink or lose color.

7. 7Acclimate Slowly

   When introducing it from a different water environment, a slow drip acclimation reduces stress. After placement, watch how the polyps open over the following days and avoid handling or moving it unnecessarily.

Frequently asked questions about Lobophyllia Corymbosa

Q.How is it different from Lobophyllia hemprichii?

A.Lobophyllia corymbosa forms separate, cylinder-shaped polyps, while Lobophyllia hemprichii has continuous, valley-like ridges. They're closely related, but the overall colony appearance differs.

Q.Is this coral suitable for beginners?

A.This coral is generally considered suitable for intermediate keepers rather than complete beginners. It's best to have some experience with water quality management and LPS corals first.

Q.Can it be placed near other corals?

A.Since LPS corals like this one can extend stinging tentacles at night, keep it a good distance from other corals. Avoid any placement where they might come into direct contact.

Q.Does it need to be fed?

A.Feeding isn't strictly necessary, but it naturally catches small food with its tentacles at night. Occasionally offering chopped seafood or coral food can support its growth.

Q.What's the origin of its scientific name?

A.The species name Lobophyllia corymbosa was first described by Forsskål in 1775, making it a long-established name in the literature. It belongs to the family Lobophylliidae among LPS corals.

Useful tools for Lobophyllia Corymbosa care

Learn more about Lobophyllia Corymbosa in the encyclopedia

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