How is it different from "Scolymia"?

Lobophyllia vitiensis was formerly classified as Scolymia vitiensis, and after the taxonomic revision, brightly colored specimens are still commonly sold under the name "Scolymia." The different names refer to the same coral.

Is this coral suitable for beginners?

This coral is considered suitable for intermediate keepers, so it's best to gain some basic experience with coral keeping and water quality management first. Keeping the tank environment stable is key to maintaining its condition.

Can it be kept alongside other corals?

It can be kept alongside other corals as long as adequate spacing is maintained, since it may extend sweeper tentacles at night. Pay attention to spacing between livestock when planning the layout to avoid contact-related issues.

How strong should water flow and lighting be?

Because of its thick, fleshy tissue, avoid placing it where strong flow hits directly, and choose a spot with gentle, even flow instead. For lighting, avoid extremely intense light and adjust gradually while observing its response.

Where does the name "Scolymia" come from?

The name comes from the genus Scolymia, to which this coral was formerly assigned, and it remains a widely used common name for Lobophyllia vitiensis even after the taxonomic revision. Specimens with concentric red-and-green coloration are especially known by this name.

Scolymia Vitiensis (Lobophyllia vitiensis)

Lobophyllia vitiensis (formerly known as Scolymia vitiensis) is a large, disc-shaped stony coral that grows as a solitary polyp or in small clusters. Thick, fleshy tissue covers its skeleton, and each colony carries a single large central mouth. Specimens with concentric rings of red and green are especially prized and are still widely sold under the name "Scolymia." Unlike branching corals, it has a low, solid profile that gives it a strong presence in the tank, though its fleshy tissue means it needs some distance from neighboring corals. Suited to intermediate keepers, it rewards patient attention to water flow and lighting as it settles in.

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Scolymia Vitiensis (Lobophyllia vitiensis) key facts

Care level: Intermediate
Temperature: 24〜27℃
Diet: Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus meaty foods
Lighting: Moderate or lower LED lighting; start low and acclimate, since too much light causes fading.
Flow & Placement: Gentle flow. Normally set directly on sand, in a spot where stirred sediment will not settle on the tissue.
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 to the central mouth for colour and growth.
Notes: It is sometimes traded as Scolymia or Parascolymia. As a scleractinian it is CITES Appendix II.

TraitsLPSScolySolitary polypCITES II

About Scolymia Vitiensis (Lobophyllia vitiensis)

Lobophyllia vitiensis (formerly Scolymia vitiensis) is a large disc-shaped stony coral with thick fleshy tissue and a single large mouth, prized for its concentric red-and-green coloration. Suited to intermediate keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Scolymia Vitiensis (Lobophyllia vitiensis)

1A Large, Disc-Shaped Coral
Lobophyllia vitiensis grows as a solitary polyp or in small clusters, forming a large, disc-shaped colony. Its low, solid profile stands out from branching corals and gives it a strong presence in the tank.
2Thick Tissue Over the Skeleton
Thick, fleshy tissue covers the coral's skeleton. When disturbed, the tissue can retract and briefly expose the skeleton beneath — a natural defensive response.
3One Large Central Mouth
Unlike colonial corals with many mouths, this species has a single large mouth at its center. Watching how it opens during feeding is a useful way to gauge the coral's condition.
4Coloration Varies by Individual
The concentric red-and-green pattern varies widely between individuals, and specimens with a striking pattern have long been sold under the name "Scolymia." Its appearance can also shift depending on the angle and intensity of the light.
5Avoid Placing in Strong Flow
Because of its thick, fleshy tissue, this coral should not be placed directly in strong water flow. Gentle, indirect flow that reaches the whole colony helps it stay in good condition.
6Give It Space From Neighbors
It may extend sweeper tentacles at night, so leave adequate space between it and neighboring corals. Contact can damage both corals, so plan its placement carefully within the layout.
7Suited to Intermediate Keepers
This coral is considered suitable for intermediate keepers, and prior experience stabilizing water quality and parameters makes it easier to care for. It's a good next step for hobbyists who have grown comfortable with their reef tank.

Frequently asked questions about Scolymia Vitiensis (Lobophyllia vitiensis)

Q.How is it different from "Scolymia"?: A.Lobophyllia vitiensis was formerly classified as Scolymia vitiensis, and after the taxonomic revision, brightly colored specimens are still commonly sold under the name "Scolymia." The different names refer to the same coral.
Q.Is this coral suitable for beginners?: A.This coral is considered suitable for intermediate keepers, so it's best to gain some basic experience with coral keeping and water quality management first. Keeping the tank environment stable is key to maintaining its condition.
Q.Can it be kept alongside other corals?: A.It can be kept alongside other corals as long as adequate spacing is maintained, since it may extend sweeper tentacles at night. Pay attention to spacing between livestock when planning the layout to avoid contact-related issues.
Q.How strong should water flow and lighting be?: A.Because of its thick, fleshy tissue, avoid placing it where strong flow hits directly, and choose a spot with gentle, even flow instead. For lighting, avoid extremely intense light and adjust gradually while observing its response.
Q.Where does the name "Scolymia" come from?: A.The name comes from the genus Scolymia, to which this coral was formerly assigned, and it remains a widely used common name for Lobophyllia vitiensis even after the taxonomic revision. Specimens with concentric red-and-green coloration are especially known by this name.